Controversial preacher Apostle James Ng’ang’a of Neno Evangelism Ministry has responded defiantly after Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris called on the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to investigate a viral video allegedly showing him confessing to a serious crime.
Viral Video Sparks Outrage
The undated clip, widely circulated on social media, appears to show Pastor Ng’ang’a admitting to his congregation that he was once part of an eight-man gang that sexually assaulted a woman many years ago. The video has ignited public outrage, with Kenyans demanding answers from both the preacher and law enforcement authorities.
Pastor Ng’ang’a’s Defiant Response
During a TikTok live session, Pastor Ng’ang’a dismissed Passaris’s call for investigation, stating: “Mimi nishikwe? Kwani kushikwa hio ni kitu kwangu? Hata badala ya kunitumania si uniambie ni polisi gani unataka niende hio masaa ya kutishwa mimi iliisha.” His remarks indicated he would not be intimidated or coerced into compliance, fueling further online criticism.
Calls for Accountability
Passaris publicly addressed the matter, urging the DCI to verify the video amid concerns about potential digital manipulation and deepfake technology. She emphasized that if the clip is genuine, it should be treated as a potential criminal confession rather than a sermon.
“As a man of God, if the pastor did make that confession, he should surrender himself to the police, name the eight others involved, and help deliver justice for the survivor,” Passaris stated. She also expressed concern for the woman allegedly assaulted, asking, “I keep wondering where the woman is today? How has her life been since that ordeal?”
Legal and Public Implications
Legal experts note that, if verified, the preacher’s comments could constitute a self-incriminating statement warranting criminal scrutiny. Despite the public outcry, neither the DCI nor Neno Evangelism Ministry has issued an official clarification regarding the video’s authenticity.
Ongoing Debate
Pastor Ng’ang’a’s defiance, coupled with Passaris’s insistence on accountability, has intensified calls for transparency. The situation highlights the tension between social media revelations, legal obligations, and public demand for justice, leaving the nation awaiting any official investigations.
