A large team of police officers has taken position at Jesus Winner Ministry in Roysambu as they prepare for a planned protest.
Authorities moved swiftly to secure the area after learning about the upcoming demonstration planned and organized online.
Several officers stand guard at the main entrance, ensuring that only authorized individuals can access the premises.
Meanwhile, Kenyans have been actively using the hashtag #OccupyJesusWinner to mobilize support for their planned protest on March 9.
Organizers intend to take their grievances directly to Bishop Edward Mwai’s pulpit, demanding answers and accountability.
The protest plans gained momentum after President William Ruto visited the church on March 2. During his visit, he made a bold promise, pledging a personal donation of Ksh.20 million.
Additionally, he vowed to contribute another Ksh.100 million through a harambee, a commitment that sparked loud cheers from the congregation.
However, this announcement did not sit well with many Kenyans. Outraged citizens took to social media to express their frustrations.
They questioned why the pastor accepted such a large sum amid growing calls for government austerity measures. Critics argued that the funds could have been better used to address pressing national issues.
Several well-known X personalities, including social commentator Francis Gaitho and outspoken lawyer Ndegwa Njiru, quickly joined the movement.
They urged Kenyans to physically show up at the church and apply pressure on its leadership. Many online users actively shared protest posters and encouraged others to participate.
“Mark the date. It’s this Sunday, March 9. We must occupy Jesus Winner Ministry in Roysambu…” Ndegwa Njiru posted on social media while sharing a rallying poster.
Abusive phone calls
As tension continues to rise, Bishop Mwai has spoken out about the backlash. He revealed that since President Ruto’s pledge, he has received thousands of abusive phone calls from angry Kenyans.
The harassment has become so intense that he had to buy new mobile phone lines to avoid the relentless messages.
“I have received more than 5,000 abusive messages and cannot even make calls,” Bishop Mwai told the Daily Nation. He admitted that the overwhelming criticism has left him feeling anxious and paranoid.
To address growing concerns, Bishop Mwai clarified that President Ruto’s donation was merely a pledge and that the church has not received any money from the Head of State.
In an effort to calm the situation, church leaders also denied allegations that they illegally acquired land to build their church.
Speaking to the media on Thursday, Rev. Raphael Mwiti explained that Jesus Winner Ministry purchased the land with a loan from Equity Bank.
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He firmly rejected claims that the church had grabbed the parcel from the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), as some critics had alleged.
Supporting this statement, JWM Secretary General Raphael Mwiti revealed that in 2024, Bishop Mwai personally approached President Ruto regarding the land issue, and the President agreed to help facilitate the process.
As the protest day approaches, tensions remain high. Security forces continue to monitor the situation closely, while church leaders urge calm and seek to clarify their position.
Kenyans, on the other hand, remain divided, with some supporting the protest and others standing by the church. Authorities will need to carefully manage the unfolding situation to prevent any potential clashes.
