Controversial preacher Pastor James Ng’ang’a has once again found himself at the center of a heated debate following his comments regarding struggling mother Milka Moraa and gender-based violence (GBV).
The saga began when a video surfaced showing Moraa, a mother of two from Mukuru kwa Njenga, seeking financial assistance from Ng’ang’a after being locked out of her home due to unpaid rent. Instead of offering support, the pastor dismissed her plea, advising her to seek help from the police or Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja.
His response sparked widespread outrage, with many Kenyans criticizing his perceived lack of compassion. However, philanthropic police officer Sammy Ondimu stepped in, raising funds for Moraa, securing her a new home under the government’s affordable housing project, and helping her get a job.
Unfazed by the criticism, Ng’ang’a defended his stance, insisting that his church was a place of worship, not a charity organization.
“Those of you in the media, look for your agemates to play with. My church is not the government of Kenya. I am not chosen by men,” he said, accusing the media of unfairly targeting him.
Ng’ang’a also took a swipe at Officer Ondimu, warning that his philanthropic actions would “backfire.”
“Itawakula. Wait and see,” he remarked, implying that Ondimu’s efforts would not end well.
Despite the controversy, Moraa later expressed gratitude to all those who helped her, including Ng’ang’a, stating that she bore no grudge against the preacher.
Just as the Moraa controversy was settling, Ng’ang’a again drew public ire in January 2025 after making offensive remarks about GBV. In his comments, he appeared to link certain types of dressing and makeup to sexual violence, sparking an outcry from women’s rights groups and the general public.
The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) strongly condemned his statements, calling them harmful and insensitive.
“Such reckless and insensitive statements not only undermine the pain of survivors but also perpetuate harmful stereotypes that normalize GBV in our communities,” KEWOPA stated, demanding a public apology from the preacher.
Ng’ang’a’s latest controversies have further divided public opinion, with some defending his right to express his views while others argue that religious leaders should be more responsible in their statements and action
