Pastor James Ng’ang’a has broken his silence on the intensifying national debate surrounding police brutality and increasing unrest among civilians. In a fiery sermon, the Neno Evangelism Centre leader delivered a heartfelt message that struck a balance between empathy for grieving families and a firm caution against escalating violence.
Ng’ang’a began by painting a vivid picture of the pain experienced by parents who lose their children due to excessive use of force. His sermon struck an emotional chord as he reminded Kenyans of the irreplaceable value of every human life and the devastating impact of violent encounters.
Yet, even as he condemned brutality, the preacher urged Kenyans not to respond with violence. “The police are our helpers,” he said. “When you’re robbed or attacked, you run to them for help. They serve both sides. So don’t turn against them.” He emphasized that while the actions of some officers may be condemnable, the police service as a whole remains a key institution in maintaining peace and order.
His message also took a sharp political turn when he addressed recent remarks by a top government official who appeared to justify use of force by law enforcers. Ng’ang’a warned that such statements could be dangerously misinterpreted and might lead to more bloodshed. “Pray for our police,” he urged. “We are in a hard season. Some leaders are out here saying ‘kill people,’ but after the job is done, they’ll just retire peacefully. The consequences will be felt by the common mwananchi.”
Ng’ang’a’s criticism didn’t stop at the security sector. He also called out what he described as arrogance and intoxication with power among some of the country’s leaders. “Some of you just got into office and already act like you own the country,” he said. “Kenya has had many leaders before you — from Moi to Kenyatta. You didn’t found the government. You’re a servant, not a master.”
These remarks came at a time when frustrations with law enforcement are boiling over. Public outrage has been growing after several recent incidents, including the controversial death of a young blogger, Albert Ojwang, while in police custody. His death sparked mass protests that turned chaotic. In one particularly harrowing incident caught on camera, a hawker was shot at close range during a demonstration. The video quickly went viral, fueling more anger and calls for justice.
Tensions escalated further during the recent commemoration of the 2025 Gen Z protests, which saw renewed clashes between civilians and security forces. Several people on both sides sustained injuries in what has become an increasingly hostile relationship between citizens and law enforcement.
Ng’ang’a’s sermon received mixed reactions online. While many praised his boldness and called his message timely and wise, others reacted with sarcasm, highlighting the unusual alignment of his message with the sentiments of the younger generation. Nonetheless, his call for calm, accountability, and responsible leadership was heard loud and clear.
Away from the national discourse, the pastor also found himself embroiled in a separate controversy. Officials from the county government recently visited his church over claims of an unpaid KSh 10 million land rate. He responded by dismissing the claims as misleading, clarifying that the issue was already in court. According to him, the legal battle explained the friction between his ministry and the authorities.
Despite the personal and public challenges, Ng’ang’a remained firm in his stance — urging both citizens and leaders to act with restraint, wisdom, and compassion as the country navigates through this tense period.
