AIPCA Links Two MPs to Goons Who Disrupted Ruto’s Sunday Church Visit

The African Independent Pentecostal Church of Africa (AIPCA) has accused two members of parliament of orchestrating goons who disrupted a church service attended by President William Ruto on December 14, 2025. 

The church revealed the claims during a media briefing on December 20, led by Rev. Gabriel Kanjiri.

According to Rev. Kanjiri, the church possesses credible evidence linking the MPs to the disruption. 

“We have videos, mobilisation messages, and transaction records showing organised recruitment and payment of individuals prior to the Sunday service,” he said. 

The identities of the MPs were not disclosed, but Kanjiri confirmed that they were present during the service.

The AIPCA leader explained that the politicians allegedly manipulated church members and youth to serve as political tools during the event. 

“Youths and congregants were used to further political agendas,” he said, adding that this violated the church’s principles.

The disruption occurred during a segment of the service when Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi was addressing the congregation after being introduced by area MP Elijah Kururia as the outgoing governor. 

Goons reportedly heckled the governor, causing a scene in front of President Ruto and other attendees.

In addition, the church highlighted the behaviour of women in Women’s Council regalia. Some women wore trousers, make-up, and nose rings, actions that contravene AIPCA’s customary regulations. 

On December 15, the church clarified that the blue scarves these women wore had been distributed by politicians, not the church. 

The scarves are usually purchased from the church headquarters in Nairobi, making the misuse a matter of political manipulation rather than church sanction.

Rev. Kanjiri condemned the events but stated that politicians are still welcome to attend church services. 

However, he warned that they must exercise caution and respect the church’s rules and customs while present. 

The church leadership emphasized the importance of maintaining the sanctity of worship and preventing the use of church platforms for political gain.

The incident has since drawn reactions from political leaders. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua criticized the event, accusing President Ruto of employing political tactics in churches. 

Gachagua claimed that the president was using school buses to transport supporters and “goons” to church events, a move he described as manipulative and politically motivated.

The events at AIPCA highlight the growing concern over the intersection of religion and politics in Kenya.