The Kenya Conference of the Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has banned cash donations in its worship centres in a bid to curb the increasing cases of corruption.
Speaking on Saturday in Subukia, Nakuru County, during the national prayers themed Breaking the Chains of Corruption, the chairperson of KCCB Archbishop Philip Anyolo gave a new strict directive that will guide catholic churches in conducting fund drives.
“Contributions to fundraisers in our churches will be done by mobile money transfers or preferably by cheque. This will prevent handling of a large amount of cash and give a clear trail of donors,” said Anyolo.
The Kisumu Diocese Bishop also added that the church will be tracking donations through keeping records.
He warned politicians from politicking in its churches warning that they will not tolerate the vice.
“We shall keep records of any gifts to a religious leader exceeding Kshs50,000.
All gifts should be accompanied by a letter or acknowledged by a letter. Our churches will not be used as political platforms or for any other motive,” added the Bishop.
KCCB further directed that politicians will not be allowed during its liturgical celebrations thus basically banning politicians from speaking at its churches.
Thousands of worshippers had attended the event including scores of Members of Parliament(MP).
Kiminini MP Chris Wamalwa welcomed the move and congratulated the bishops saying the Church should be left to pursue its core functions.
The new directive comes barely a month after two MPs Maina Kamanda and Ndindi Nyoro clashed at a church service and brought activities into a standstill.
Besides, the church has been on spot for encouraging corruption through accepting questionable donations from politicians accused to be corrupt.