Controversial televangelist Pastor James Ng’ang’a of Neno Evangelism Centre has responded sharply to Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris, after she called for an investigation into a viral video appearing to show him confessing to a gang rape incident.
In a heated statement on October 9, 2025, Pastor Ng’ang’a accused Passaris of meddling in issues she did not understand, dismissing her remarks as misinformed and politically motivated.
“Mama mmoja hawa wa siasa anasema Pastor Ng’ang’a sijui nimesema tulirape mwanamke. Wewe madam, mind your business,” he said.
“I give my testimony every time. I was in prison for 20 years. Don’t try to bring drama to me.”
Ng’ang’a insisted that the remarks in the video were taken out of context, saying his prison experiences are part of his long-standing testimony of transformation and salvation.
“I’ve been saying these things since day one. I will continue to preach. My testimony is how God saved me from a life of sin — that’s my ministry,” he said.
The pastor also issued a personal warning to Passaris, accusing her of seeking publicity at his expense.
“My sister, you are not my equal. Tafuta rika yako, don’t try me,” he said.
Passaris Calls for DCI Probe
On October 7, 2025, Passaris had urged the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to probe the viral video, which allegedly showed Ng’ang’a admitting to participating in a rape alongside eight others.
“It is no laughing matter. We cannot move past such a serious issue without accountability,” she stated.
Passaris acknowledged that the footage could be AI-generated or manipulated, but said it still warranted an official review.
“In this era of deepfakes, I don’t know if the clip is genuine, but it MUST be investigated,” she said.
She further urged that if the confession was real, Ng’ang’a should cooperate with authorities, name all those involved, and help deliver justice for the alleged victim.
“As a man of God, if the pastor made that confession, he should surrender to police and assist in investigations,” she added, expressing concern for the unidentified woman in the clip.
Passaris also extended prayers to survivors of sexual violence, saying many still live in silence and deserve justice.
Background
Pastor Ng’ang’a, known for his fiery sermons and controversial public persona, has often referenced his past criminal record and two-decade prison term as part of his redemption story. The viral video has reignited debate about ethics in the clergy, digital misinformation, and the role of accountability in religious leadership.
