MPs Slam Pastor Ng’ang’a Over Shocking Rape Remarks
The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) has strongly criticized city preacher Pastor James Maina Ng’ang’a for his controversial remarks, which have sparked outrage and gone viral on social media.
In a statement released on Monday, KEWOPA Chairperson Lilian Sankaire described the comments as harmful, insensitive, and a setback in the fight against gender-based violence (GBV).
“KEWOPA firmly condemns Pastor Ng’ang’a’s recent statements that trivialize rape and demean women. At a time when Kenya is witnessing a rise in GBV cases, such remarks undermine the dignity and respect every individual deserves,” the statement read.
The group further demanded an unequivocal public apology from the pastor. “We call on Pastor Ng’ang’a to issue a sincere apology to survivors of sexual violence and all Kenyan women. Leaders and communities must unite to raise awareness, support survivors, and ensure accountability for GBV perpetrators,” KEWOPA urged.
Highlighting the severity of rape as a crime, the association emphasized its long-lasting emotional, psychological, and physical toll on survivors. “Rape is a heinous act, not a subject for mockery. Such reckless statements perpetuate harmful stereotypes and normalize GBV in our society,” KEWOPA added.
The condemnation follows a viral clip where Pastor Ng’ang’a made inappropriate comments linking women’s dressing and makeup to sexual violence. His remarks have drawn widespread criticism from Kenyans, with many expressing outrage at the preacher’s insensitivity.
In a viral video, controversial preacher Ng’ang’a addressed a silent congregation with inflammatory comments targeting women who use cosmetics to enhance their looks. He claimed that despite their efforts, these women remain unattractive and implied they aren’t even desirable enough to attract assaulters.
“You spend hours beautifying yourself, but even after a whole day, no one notices you. Women are being raped, and you can’t even get someone to rape you,” Ng’ang’a remarked, leaving his audience visibly stunned.
He continued to mock such women, shockingly suggesting that being assaulted would somehow validate their attractiveness. “At least if you were raped, it would show someone noticed you. But no one is doing that. No one hits on you, and if they do, they’re just playing games,” he sneered.
Ng’ang’a further blamed their struggles on internal issues rather than outward appearance. “You spend two hours in front of a mirror, but the problem isn’t your face – it’s inside you,” he added.
The congregation, known for often cheering his controversial sermons, sat in shocked silence during the undated speech.
The video quickly made its rounds online, sparking widespread outrage among Kenyans on X (formerly Twitter). Many condemned Ng’ang’a’s language as offensive and harmful, with some calling for his arrest over the disturbing remarks.
The incident comes amid a worrying rise in GBV cases in Kenya. Reports indicate that over 100 women have been murdered since January, underscoring the urgent need for action. Globally, UNICEF estimates reveal that 1 in 8 women and girls—over 370 million—have experienced sexual violence before turning 18.
KEWOPA reiterated its commitment to promoting dignity, respect, and accountability while calling for collective efforts to combat GBV and protect vulnerable members of society.
MPs Slam Pastor Ng’ang’a Over Shocking Rape Remarks
