38 Arrested Protesters at Jesus Winner Ministry Church Released After Police Detention
At least 38 people arrested at Jesus Winner Ministry Church in Roysambu on Sunday have been released, following a day of chaos, protests, and a heavy police presence triggered by President William Ruto’s recent donation to the church.
Authorities confirmed that the arrested individuals were taken to Kasarani Police Station for questioning but were later released unconditionally on Sunday evening. A group of lawyers advocating for their freedom arrived at the station, urging police to release them pending any further investigations.
Protests and Clashes Shake Roysambu
The unrest erupted after President Ruto’s March 2 visit to Jesus Winner Ministry Church, where he pledged a Sh20 million donation, along with an additional Sh100 million for an upcoming fundraiser. The announcement sparked controversy, leading to protests organized under the viral hashtag #OccupyJesusWinner.
Angry demonstrators took to the streets, blocking roads, lighting bonfires, and engaging in running battles with police officers, who responded with tear gas. Businesses in the area were forced to close as tensions escalated, disrupting the normally peaceful Sunday worship at the church.
Bishop Mwai Speaks Out Amidst Accusations
Bishop Edward Mwai, the head of Jesus Winner Ministry, addressed the congregation during the tense service, claiming that the protests were instigated by people he knew personally. Without mentioning names, he accused unnamed individuals of mobilizing “thugs” to disrupt the church.
“People I know very well used them and even sent some here today. Someday, they will know there is God’s presence at this altar. May God forgive our children who are being used in such a manner,” Mwai stated.
He dismissed accusations surrounding the church’s involvement with the government, asserting that the house of worship remains peaceful and neutral. Despite the tensions, Mwai urged his followers to forgive those protesting against him, saying, “I forgive all those who have insulted me and called me names and leave it to God; may He forgive them.”
Heavy Police Deployment at the Church
The church remained under tight security, with anti-riot police stationed inside and outside the premises to prevent further clashes. Some officers occupied church seats while others stood guard, ready to counter any disruption. Ushers were instructed to frisk attendees before allowing them into the service.
The government’s close relationship with the church was further highlighted last Thursday when President Ruto hosted Bishop Mwai at State House, Nairobi. During the meeting, Ruto praised the church for its involvement in hosting a recruitment drive supporting the government’s Labour Mobility Programme, aimed at helping Kenyan youth secure employment abroad.
“We appreciate Jesus Winner Ministry Church for complementing our Labour Mobility Programme by hosting a recruitment drive, which aims to secure jobs for our youth abroad,” Ruto stated. “The government will continue supporting this initiative as we work to expand job and income opportunities for our young people.”
Public Reaction and the Bigger Picture
The protests have sparked mixed reactions, with some Kenyans questioning the large sums of money being donated to religious institutions while economic hardships persist. Others argue that churches play a crucial role in community development and should not be vilified for receiving support from the government.
As the dust settles, one thing remains clear—the intersection of politics and religion in Kenya continues to be a heated and divisive issue. Whether this latest controversy will fade or escalate further depends on how both church leaders and the government handle the growing public concerns.
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38 Arrested Protesters at Jesus Winner Ministry Church Released After Police Detention