A viral video has ignited widespread debate after TikToker Nyawira Kamotho was captured kneeling before Pastor Victor Kanyari at his church pulpit in what appeared to be a surprise proposal. The moment, which took place during a live church service, left congregants visibly shocked as Kanyari chose to ignore the gesture, sparking online controversy over decorum and respect in places of worship.
The Shocking Church Scene
The now-viral clip shows Kanyari’s church transformed into a makeshift kitchen, where a man in Maasai attire carried corn on the cob while another roasted assorted meats. As the pastor sampled the food, Nyawira stood nearby singing into a microphone before suddenly dropping to one knee and offering what looked like a ring. Kanyari briefly glanced at her but refused to respond, even as she gently tugged at his arm in an attempt to get his attention. Moments later, Nyawira stood up, smiled, and walked away from the pulpit, leaving congregants murmuring in disbelief.
Online Reactions and Backlash
The incident quickly spread across social media, drawing a flood of reactions from Kenyans. Many viewers criticized the act as inappropriate for a church setting. One comment described the scene as turning “the altar into a comedy show,” while another questioned the spiritual sanctity of mixing “food, music, and proposals at the pulpit.” Several users also noted discomfort at the casual and entertainment-like tone of the service, calling for a clearer boundary between worship and performance.
Nyawira Kamotho Defends Her Actions
In response to the criticism, Nyawira defended her actions, explaining that her relationship with Pastor Kanyari is based on mutual understanding. She urged critics to respect her choices, saying her public expressions of affection were part of her personal journey and not meant to offend anyone. “People may not understand our bond, but love is personal,” she stated in a follow-up video.
A History of Controversy
This is not the first time Kanyari and Nyawira have sparked controversy. The pair have become known for their unconventional and theatrical behavior both online and in church, often blurring the line between worship and entertainment. Observers noted that while their antics attract attention and engagement, they often stir debate over the boundaries of faith-based expression and showmanship.
Kanyari’s Broader Feud with Bishop Kiengei
Adding to the drama, Pastor Kanyari recently made headlines for criticizing Bishop Muthee Kiengei over a charity drive organized for a sick child in Meru. Kanyari accused Kiengei of using the event for publicity rather than pure charity—remarks that further fueled discussions about transparency and motive within religious leadership circles.
Public Discussion on Respect and Boundaries
The viral proposal video continues to dominate online discussions, with many Kenyans weighing in on what they see as a growing erosion of reverence in religious spaces. While some dismiss the moment as harmless entertainment, others insist that the church should remain a space of solemn worship. Regardless of perspective, the incident has once again positioned Pastor Kanyari and Nyawira Kamotho at the center of Kenya’s ever-vibrant social media conversation.
