The man who was recently seen being slapped by controversial preacher Pastor James Maina Ng’ang’a during a church service has described the incident as a “blessing.” The video of the slap had sparked widespread debate online, drawing both condemnation and support. However, the man himself has now come forward to defend the pastor’s actions.
Speaking during a Sunday service at Neno Evangelism Centre in Nairobi, the man dressed in a red shirt and grey suit was introduced to the congregation by Pastor Ng’ang’a. He openly confirmed that he had indeed received two slaps from the pastor, the second of which occurred during a service the previous Friday.
To the shock of many, he expressed gratitude for the act and even stated his willingness to be slapped again if it meant receiving spiritual healing. “Haina shida. Iko sawa. Mradi nipone na injili iendelee,” he told the church, meaning, “No problem. It’s okay as long as I get healed and the gospel continues.”
The man shared that he had been struggling with disturbing dreams involving a “spiritual wife,” despite prolonged periods of prayer and fasting. He said he only found relief after Ng’ang’a prayed for him and slapped him during a deliverance session. “Nilianguka chini ukaniombea nikaskia niko huru,” he recalled “I fell down, you prayed for me, and I felt free.”
He also said he wanted to serve as an example for others, particularly those who fall asleep during church services. “Hiyo makofi ni nzuri juu ni ya Baraka,” he said, translating to “That slap was good; it was a blessing.”
Pastor Ng’ang’a, known for his fiery sermons and controversial style, defended his actions by referencing biblical discipline. “Ukipenda mtoto unamchapa,” he said. “Even my master, my Lord… overturned tables and beat those selling in the temple.”
While the incident has divided opinion online, the man’s testimony has added a new twist to the debate one that blurs the line between discipline, deliverance, and personal interpretation of spiritual experiences.