Bishop Kiengei rolls out red carpet for Ruto amid backlash over his change of stance

Bishop Benson Kiengei’s Jesus Compassion Ministries (JCM) church has rolled out the red carpet for William Ruto, even as sections of netizens continue to criticise him over what they describe as his sudden change of stance regarding supporting the government.

The President arrived at the church’s headquarters in Ruiru on Sunday, February 22, 2026, in a fleet of vehicles accompanied by a heavy security detail, drawing attention from congregants and observers alike.

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Upon his arrival, the bishop proceeded to warmly welcome him before ushering him through a red carpet, where other church officials had already assembled and were waiting to greet and formally acknowledge him.

Once inside, the President took his designated seat next to Bishop Kiengei. The seating arrangement also placed him alongside Kiambu governor Kimani Wamatangi, Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wah, and Kiengei’s wife, Reverend Joy, as the service got underway.

During the service, Bishop Kiengei took a moment to introduce different groups within the church to the Head of State, calling on congregants to stand and be recognised.

He invited men, women, and members from various branches of the ministry to rise, while also acknowledging the women’s council and a group of Gen Z congregants present during the service.

As he addressed the congregation, the bishop urged everyone to stand together so they could be seen by the president, adding that their presence would bring joy as the church celebrated its diverse membership.

“And now, let us all stand together, even the men and congregants from all our branches. May God bless you. We also have the beautiful people, the women’s council; may they stand so the president can see them and even be happy for them. Let us celebrate our mothers. And in this church, we also have the Gen Z group of congregants,” he said as he introduced the church teams to the President.

Criticism

The preacher’s decision, despite previously styling himself as Gen Z’s helper, has sparked criticism across social media, with voices like TikToker Githaiga wa Chai and emcee MC Chris Kirubi Junior joining the conversation.

In a statement on Saturday, February 21, 2026, MC Chris Kirubi called on Kiengei to ensure that President William Ruto is reminded of Gen Z’s struggle and sacrifices during his visit to the church.

MC Chris highlighted that many young people stood up, and some even lost their lives while pushing for a better Kenya, while others continued helping one another in the aftermath.

“Letter to Bishop Ben Guka wa Nairobi Muthee Kiengei: when his excellency comes to church tomorrow, do not forget to remind him about the Gen Z who died, who stood up, and the others who helped one another afterwards,” he wrote.

He emphasised that the President should be made aware of their struggles and contributions during the visit, warning that failing to acknowledge them would amount to disregarding their rights and efforts.

“We visited and swore you would not cooperate with them. If you do that, you will have done what is right,” he wrote.