The original video has been altered to make the President appear part of the audience

This  X (formerly Twitter) post with a video purporting that Father Charles Kinyua, a Catholic priest and founder of Father CK Foundation, referred to President William Ruto as a thief in his sermon is ALTERED.

In the video, President Ruto and other government officials are seen juxtaposed in a church service during Fr. Kinyua's sermon, creating the impression that the Head of State was present.

Father Kinyua is heard asking thieves to stop stealing in accordance with the Bible in the book of Ephesians 4:8 that says, “If you are a thief, quit stealing. Instead, use your hands for good hard work and then give generously to others in need.”

The priest adds,  “This verse is for the thieves, especially those who are with us in this mass and those watching us online. Thieves, did you hear me?”

A reverse image search on the video leads to the original clip titled '25 Days Novena for Finances, Wealth, and Prosperity,' which aired on Fr. Kinyua's Youtube Channel on 10th  October, 2024 at 8.15PM. A day later, an altered version surfaced. 

The original footage does not include a cutaway showing the congregation or the president.

Furthermore, the photoshopped layer of the President was clipped from a past service where President Ruto met with AIPCA church leaders at State House, Nairobi, in August.

On the same note, a digital card purported to be from Tuko News alleged that Father Charles had been summoned by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) over his remarks during the sermon was also shared online.

However, the publication dismissed the card, terming it fake. “We’ve noticed false information circulating on social media, claiming to be from us. Please note, if it’s not on our verified social media platforms, it’s NOT from us. Stay informed and trust only official sources.” Tuko.co.ke said 

DCI equally refuted the claim in their X account.

Maudhui House has looked into an X post with a video purporting that Father Charles Kinyua referred to President William Ruto as a thief in his sermon and found it to be ALTERED. 

This fact-check was published by Maudhui House with support from Code for Africa’s PesaCheck and African Fact-Checking Alliance.