The High Court in Nairobi has ordered a halt to the construction of churches and other permanent religious structures within State House and official government residences.
Justice Chacha Mwita, sitting at the Milimani Law Courts, issued temporary orders on Wednesday after a coalition of civil society groups challenged the project.
The petitioners — Transparency International Kenya, the Kenya Human Rights Commission, and two other organisations — argue that building religious facilities on state property risks undermining the constitutional principle of neutrality in matters of faith.
“The issues raised are weighty and require the court’s urgent attention,” Justice Mwita said, noting that immediate intervention was necessary to prevent actions that could affect the outcome of the case.
The groups filed the petition on 20 August, saying the move by government authorities blurred the lines between church and state. They contend that state neutrality is central to protecting freedom of worship for all Kenyans, regardless of belief.
The court has now directed the respondents, believed to include government departments responsible for the project, to file their responses within seven days. A full hearing is expected on 18 November, when submissions from all sides will be highlighted.
The ruling has drawn public interest at a time when debates over the role of religion in governance remain deeply sensitive. Kenya’s Constitution guarantees freedom of religion but also bars the state from favouring one faith over another.
For now, no construction may continue at State House until the court delivers its verdict.
About the Author
