Deputy President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga renewed their political rivalry over a disputed car donation to a Catholic bishop, with conflicting claims about its origin and acceptance.
The controversy emerged after Kisumu Catholic Archbishop Philip Anyolo's office reportedly rejected a new Mitsubishi Pajero donated by Ruto in January 2019. Odinga alleged the vehicle was returned to the deputy president after the Vatican raised concerns about its funding, while Ruto denied the claim and accused Odinga of spreading falsehoods.
Ruto's office stated the car was purchased by Christian leaders, including President Uhuru Kenyatta, at the request of Catholic MPs. The deputy president accused Odinga of fabricating the Vatican's involvement, calling him a 'master of deceit' during a church visit in Machakos County. 'Shetani ashindwe' (the devil is disturbed), Ruto reportedly said, suggesting opposition to church development efforts.
A church official confirmed the Pajero was donated but remained unused at a pastoral center. The bishop had already received a Sh5 million Toyota V8 from congregants upon his installation. The official noted internal church debates about accepting gifts with unclear origins, though no formal rejection was documented.
Supporters of Ruto, including MPs like Vincent Musyoka and Rigathi Gachagua, defended the donation as a legitimate act of Christian support. They criticized Odinga for interfering in religious matters, with some questioning his church attendance habits. 'Odinga doesn't go to church but attends funerals,' said James Wamacukuru, a Machakos MP.
Opposition figures like Nasa secretary Norman Magaya praised the church's decision, accusing Ruto of corruption linked to infrastructure projects. Magaya referenced land grabs during the 2007-2008 post-election violence and construction contracts, though no evidence was provided.
The dispute occurs amid broader political tensions ahead of the 2022 presidential election, with both sides leveraging religious and corruption narratives to mobilize support.
