
Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has publicly challenged the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to take urgent action against Apostle James Ng’ang’a, following the circulation of a disturbing clip in which the preacher allegedly admits involvement in a violent assault against a woman.
In a video that has gone viral across social media platforms, Pastor Ng’ang’a of Neno Evangelism Ministry is heard saying, “We assaulted one woman while we were eight people. We did it.” The clip is undated, and its authenticity has not been verified as of yet.
Passaris, in a statement shared on her X account, urged the DCI to immediately launch an investigation into the matter, stressing that whether the video is genuine or manipulated, the implication remains grave. “In this era of AI-generated and manipulated videos … it must be investigated,” she asserted.
She further warned that if the clip turns out to be authentic, Pastor Ng’ang’a should be arrested and face criminal charges. Passaris also pressed the preacher to surrender himself to nearby police authorities and disclose names of accomplices.
“How has the victim’s life been since that ordeal?” Passaris queried, demanding swift action to protect the affected woman and uphold justice. Widely Condemned Reputation, Rising TensionThe preacher is no stranger to controversy.
He has previously drawn public ire for offensive remarks during sermons and was criticized earlier this year for allegedly slapping a congregant and making verbal assaults. Meanwhile, women’s rights groups and parliamentary colleagues have in the past condemned Ng’ang’a’s dismissive language around rape.
In one notable instance, the Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) lashed out at the preacher for trivializing sexual violence and demanded accountability. As the demand for a transparent probe grows, pressure mounts on both law enforcement and religious leadership.
The outcome of the DCI’s actions—or inaction—could fuel further public distrust in institutions when faced with allegations of gender-based violence.