Pastor James Maina Ng’ang’a, a popular but often controversial city preacher, has come under heavy criticism following remarks he made about rape, which have gone viral on social media.
The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) has strongly condemned his comments, terming them harmful and insensitive.
In a statement issued on Monday by KEWOPA Chairperson Lilian Sankaire, the association expressed outrage over the remarks, which they said trivialize a serious crime and demean women.
“KEWOPA condemns in the strongest terms the recent comments by Pastor Ng’ang’a, which trivialize rape and degrade women.
As a society, we must prioritize the dignity and respect of all individuals, particularly during a time when cases of gender-based violence (GBV) are alarmingly high in Kenya,” the statement read.
The parliamentary group further emphasized that such remarks undermine ongoing efforts to combat GBV and minimize its profound impact on survivors and their families.
“These statements are not only offensive and insensitive but also detract from the critical fight against GBV.
They dismiss the trauma endured by survivors and make light of an issue that requires collective efforts to eradicate,” the group added.
KEWOPA Demands Public Apology
The association has demanded that Pastor Ng’ang’a issue an immediate and unconditional public apology for his controversial comments.
“KEWOPA calls upon Pastor Ng’ang’a to extend an unreserved apology to survivors of sexual violence and to all Kenyan women.
Leaders, organizations, and communities must work together to fight GBV by raising awareness, supporting survivors, and holding perpetrators accountable,” the group stated.
Rape Not a Topic for Mockery
KEWOPA pointed out that rape is a grave crime with far-reaching emotional, psychological, and physical effects on survivors.
The group strongly criticized Ng’ang’a for making light of such a serious matter.
“Rape is not a subject for humor or mockery. It is a heinous act that leaves survivors with lifelong scars.
Reckless and thoughtless remarks like these disregard the suffering of survivors and perpetuate harmful stereotypes that normalize GBV in society,” the statement emphasized.
The uproar follows Ng’ang’a’s comments, which linked women’s dressing and use of makeup to sexual violence.
His remarks, described by many as outrageous and callous, have sparked widespread backlash online, with Kenyans voicing their dismay and anger over his insensitivity.
GBV Cases on the Rise in Kenya
The controversy comes at a time when Kenya is battling a surge in gender-based violence. According to recent statistics from the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), over 370 million women and girls globally—equivalent to one in eight—have been victims of rape or sexual assault before reaching 18.
In Kenya, the situation is dire, with over 100 women reportedly murdered in gender-related violence incidents as of January.
Pastor Ng’ang’a’s remarks have been widely condemned, with calls for more awareness and accountability to address the growing cases of GBV and ensure justice for survivors.
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