The controversial pastor and founder of Neno Evangelism Centre, Pastor James Ng’ang’a, has once again come under public scrutiny following a televised church service in which he appeared to publicly humiliate his wife, Murugi Maina, claiming he had “rescued” her from Mukuru kwa Njenga.
The moment, which many described as theatrical, reignited debate about the dynamics of high-profile evangelical marriages and the boundaries of conduct within the pulpit.
While addressing his congregation on resilience, Pastor Ng’ang’a diverted from his sermon and called his wife forward.
“There is a certain woman I was with, let her greet you and tell you where she comes from,” he said, adding, “I removed you from Mukuru kwa Njenga.”
The remarks, delivered in his characteristically forceful tone, were widely interpreted as an assertion of dominance and a reminder of his perceived role in his wife’s transformation and social mobility.
Murugi Maina, however, appeared to defuse the moment. Calm and composed, she introduced herself not in reference to her past residence but as a transformed believer now living in Karen.
“For those who do not know me, my name is Murugi Maina. I am born again, and Jesus is Lord,” she said. “I come from Karen. I already left Mukuru, so my home is Karen.”
By reframing the exchange around spiritual renewal rather than background, she redirected attention and softened the impact of the pastor’s remarks.
Such incidents highlight the personal and marital dynamics that are sometimes displayed on the pulpit, both literally and metaphorically.
A similar example is that of controversial pastor Victor Kanyari, whose marital troubles previously played out publicly after his so-called miracle practices were exposed, leading to a rift with his then-wife, the late Betty Bayo, who later filed for divorce.
More recently, Kanyari has been publicly linked to socialite Marion Naipei, with the pair often displaying affection during church appearances and public sermons.
Controversial pastor Susan Munene has also been known for her outspoken approach to marital issues, including her widely circulated “twa twa” remarks.
She and her husband once discussed aspects of their private life during a televised interview.
Evangelical couple Kathy Kiuna and her late husband Allan Kiuna were also known for openly expressing affection on and off the pulpit until he died in 2024.
Reactions online were mixed. One user, @susan wacheke, commented that the pastor’s tone suggested discomfort on his wife’s part, noting his apparent pride.
@alice palace wrote that the remarks may have stemmed from private disagreements brought into a public setting.
@Grace Kimuhu added, “Omg. Some women go through a lot. But who you marry.”