Pastor James Ng’ang’a has once again stirred controversy after a video emerged showing him slapping a member of his congregation who had fallen asleep during a sermon. The incident, which quickly went viral, has sparked widespread backlash from the public.
In the video, the preacher can be seen preaching passionately before noticing a man sleeping in the front row. He paused his sermon, expressed his distaste for drama, and then descended from the pulpit, walking toward the slumbering congregant. Without hesitation, Ng’ang’a slapped the man across the face, waking him up abruptly.
The man, seemingly startled and embarrassed, smiled nervously, but the pastor slapped him again and ordered him to move to the back of the church. As the man stood up to comply, Ng’ang’a hit him again on the back, commanding him to relocate. The preacher then proceeded to insult him loudly in front of the congregation.
Ng’ang’a also turned his attention to a woman sitting next to the sleeping man, questioning why she allowed him to sleep during the service. The woman tried to explain that she hadn’t noticed because she was focused on the sermon, but the pastor was visibly agitated.
The video has drawn intense criticism online, with many Kenyans condemning Ng’ang’a’s behavior. Reactions ranged from disbelief to outrage, with some questioning why people still attend his church, while others claimed they would have retaliated if put in a similar situation.
Comments from netizens highlighted the shock many felt watching the incident. Some expressed anger at the public humiliation of the man, calling it disrespectful and unacceptable, especially in a place of worship. Others were stunned that such behavior continues to occur in the church and even more surprised that people continue to support the preacher despite repeated controversies.
The act has also reignited debate about the role of spiritual leaders and the boundaries they should respect while addressing their congregations. While some defended the pastor, claiming it was his way of maintaining order, the majority of voices online saw the act as a clear abuse of power.
In a separate incident during the same service, another woman approached Ng’ang’a seeking comfort after being abandoned by her husband. Her emotional plea for help took an unexpected turn when the pastor blamed her hairstyle, saying it resembled that of a man. His response left many in disbelief, with some viewers finding the moment shocking and others ridiculing the explanation.
This isn’t the first time Pastor Ng’ang’a has made headlines for his unorthodox and often controversial behavior. Known for his dramatic sermons and confrontational style, he has been a polarizing figure in Kenya’s religious landscape.
As the backlash continues, many are calling for accountability and urging religious institutions to uphold the dignity and respect of their members. The incident has sparked conversations around emotional abuse in religious settings and the need for churchgoers to demand better treatment from their leaders.
