Lavington Church Cancels Rachel Ruto's Fundraiser Following Social Media Backlash

Lavington United Church has cancelled its highly anticipated fundraiser set to feature Kenya's First Lady Mama Rachel Ruto as the chief guest.

The decision comes in response to significant public outcry and pressure on the church leadership. Originally scheduled for June 30, 2024, the event aimed to raise funds to complete the church's sanctuary. The controversy arose when the invitation card for the fundraiser was made public, sparking outrage among Kenyans who were still grappling with the recent deaths of protestors during demonstrations against the Finance Bill. These protests escalated into violence resulting in an unconfirmed number of fatalities.

“The pastoral team and church leadership cordially invite you to a fundraising event to complete our sanctuary on June 30, 2024, from 10 am at Lavington United Church. The Chief Guest will be Her Excellency Mrs Rachel Ruto, the First Lady of the Republic of Kenya. Your presence and generous contribution will be highly appreciated.” the invitation read.

The invitation, signed by Reverend Simon Mutahi, featured Her Excellency Mrs Rachel Ruto as the Chief Guest. This detail drew criticism from those who felt the church should not involve politicians perceived as unsupportive during the protests. The backlash has gained momentum online leading to the circulation of Rev Mutahi's contact information. Among those who have reached out is Mwabili Mwagodi, a youth who claims to have initiated the campaign to keep politicians out of church pulpits.

Mwagodi had stated their intention to attend the fundraiser presumably in protest. Faced with mounting pressure and concerns, Rev. Mutahi has made the difficult decision to cancel the event with the church leadership issuing a notice informing members that the fundraiser would no longer take place.