
The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) has strongly condemned recent remarks made by city preacher Pastor James Maina Ng’ang’a, which have sparked outrage on social media.
In a statement released on Monday, KEWOPA chairperson Lilian Sankaire described the comments as harmful and insensitive.
“KEWOPA condemns in the strongest terms the recent remarks by Pastor Ng’ang’a that trivialize rape and demean women. As a society, we must uphold the dignity and respect of all individuals, especially at a time when gender-based violence (GBV) is on the rise in Kenya,” the statement read.
The parliamentary group emphasized that such statements not only harm survivors but also undermine the ongoing fight against GBV and its devastating impact on victims and their families. They called on Pastor Ng’ang’a to issue an unreserved public apology for his remarks.
“KEWOPA calls on Pastor Ng’ang’a to apologize to survivors of sexual violence and to the women of Kenya. We urge all leaders, organizations, and communities to unite in the fight against GBV by promoting awareness, supporting survivors, and holding perpetrators accountable,” the statement continued.
KEWOPA criticized Ng’ang’a’s comments, highlighting the seriousness of rape as a crime that leaves survivors with lifelong emotional and physical scars. “Rape is not a subject for jest or mockery. Such reckless statements not only undermine the pain of survivors but also perpetuate harmful stereotypes that normalize GBV in our communities,” they asserted.
Pastor Ng’ang’a, known for his controversial views on social issues, made unprintable remarks linking women’s clothing and makeup choices to rape. The clip of his comments has since gone viral, drawing widespread condemnation from Kenyans who expressed horror at his insensitivity.
According to recent estimates from the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), over 370 million girls and women worldwide—equivalent to 1 in 8—have experienced rape or sexual assault before the age of 18.
Ng’ang’a’s remarks come at a time when Kenya is grappling with rising cases of GBV, with reports indicating that over 100 women have been murdered as of January. KEWOPA’s response underscores the urgent need for societal change and accountability in addressing issues of gender-based violence in Kenya.