A video showing a priest preaching about thieves while President William Ruto listens has gone viral. Many viewers were shocked, thinking the priest was calling out the President during a sermon.
In the video, the priest urges thieves to stop stealing and work hard instead. He says, “If you are a thief, quit stealing. Instead, use your hands for good hard work and then give generously to others in need.” He seems to address “thieves following us live,” implying that he knows they are listening.To verify this, The Kenya Times fact-checked the video. It turns out the footage was manipulated. The priest’s sermon was delivered at a different location, while President Ruto was at a separate event at State House.
The original sermon was by Father Charles Kinyua and was live-streamed on October 10, 2024. Father Kinyua, associated with the Archdiocese of Nyeri, discussed issues of corruption and dishonesty during his sermon titled “25 Days Novena for Finances, Wealth and Prosperity.”
This incident is part of a broader pattern of misinformation surrounding President Ruto. Just the day before, his daughter, Charlene Ruto, spoke out against false claims regarding her supposed government appointment. A fake gazette notice claimed she was made chairperson of the National Mining Corporation.
In response, Charlene clarified on social media that she does not seek government positions and is building her own career. She called the rumors propaganda and asked people not to spread false information. The actual appointment was for someone else, Joseph Kipchumba Lagat, as confirmed by The Kenya Times.
The viral video of the priest’s sermon was misrepresented. It featured a different context, and Charlene Ruto also addressed rumors about her involvement in government, emphasizing the importance of accuracy in news.
By Kenyans