Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has clarified why no investigations have been opened into an incident involving Pastor James Ng’ang’a of Neno Evangelism Centre. A video allegedly showing the preacher slapping a congregant during a live service went viral in April 2025.
Murkomen told senators on November 5, 2025, that despite public outrage, nobody has filed a formal complaint with the police. “It has been established that the alleged incident occurred during a night vigil prayer on April 11, 2025. The incident was neither reported at the nearest police station nor at any other station. Consequently, no investigations are currently underway, as no formal complaint has been lodged,” Murkomen said.
The CS was responding to a question from Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda, who sought to understand laws governing misconduct among religious leaders while safeguarding freedom of worship. Murkomen assured the Senate that Kenya has a complete legal framework for such cases, citing the Societies Act and Penal Code.
“Religious leaders who engage in physical abuse or apply coercive tactics against congregants can be prosecuted, offering legal protection and recourse for victims,” Murkomen explained. He also emphasized the government’s collaboration with faith-based organizations to increase accountability and self-regulation.
Murkomen highlighted proposed legislation, including the “Do No Harm Act” and the Religious Organizations Bill, 2024, aimed at promoting transparency and preventing misuse of religious freedom protections. He assured that the government is working to protect worshippers and whistleblowers, citing constitutional provisions and the Whistleblower Protection Act.
