President William Ruto recently sparked outrage and debate after instructing police officers to shoot protesters looting businesses — but specifically “in the legs.” The directive, issued on July 9, has drawn mixed reactions from the public, politicians, and clergy alike, with many raising questions about its legality and morality. Amid the serious backlash, one unexpected voice added a humorous twist to the national conversation — Pastor James Ng’ang’a.
The controversial preacher, known for his fiery sermons and dramatic delivery, used his pulpit to take a light-hearted but pointed jab at the president’s directive. During a Sunday service at the Neno Evangelism Centre, Pastor Ng’ang’a mocked the government’s recent posture, delivering his message with such comic timing that it sent his congregation into fits of laughter.
“Lakini saa ingine hata nyinyi mko na mchezo. Hamskii mnavunjwa miguu? Na tunawajengea kanisa. Wantam? Yaani hamskii kitu ingine?” he quipped. His satirical jab combined critique with comic relief, subtly questioning both the government’s aggressive tactics and the contradictory reports of constructing a State House church even as citizens are allegedly being targeted with violence.
Ng’ang’a, careful not to align too closely with any side, threw in a mock warning to his followers not to involve him in political squabbles: “Msifanye waniletee kisirani hapa na mimi ni wa laana. Ground inasema aje?”
Clips from the sermon quickly made their way to social media, where they ignited a wave of reactions. Many Kenyans praised the preacher’s boldness and comedic delivery, noting how he captured public sentiment better than some politicians. Comments ranged from playful to reflective:
- “Pia comanda amekubali ni wantam 😂very niiice.”
- “Commander is a whole vibee.”
- “Bonga na commander aeke crusade ya genz utufunze hii maneno ya serkal.”
Others called for Pastor Ng’ang’a to hold a Gen Z-targeted crusade, saying his energy could speak to the frustrations of the youth.
The president’s directive had already stirred intense debate across political and civil society circles. While some government officials defended it as a necessary measure to protect property and restore public order, many human rights advocates and political opponents condemned the move as authoritarian and unconstitutional.
Among those who strongly criticized the president’s statement was opposition leader Raila Odinga. Speaking at a separate event, he blasted the directive as undemocratic, stressing that Kenya must uphold the rule of law and not slide into authoritarianism. He urged the police to distinguish between peaceful protesters and criminals, insisting that only courts should determine guilt and administer justice.
Odinga emphasized the need to protect the constitutional rights of all citizens, saying the right to protest is not only legal but essential in a functioning democracy. He warned that encouraging extrajudicial tactics risks turning Kenya into a police state.
As the political heat continues to rise, Pastor Ng’ang’a’s theatrics have offered many Kenyans a rare moment of comic relief in an otherwise tense atmosphere. His performance may not solve the crisis — but in a country where laughter is often the only way to cope, it certainly helped ease some of the pressure.
