Kiengei pens emotional reflection on discouragement as criticism trails him after hosting Ruto

Bishop Ben Kiengei of Jesus Compassion Ministries (JCM) has addressed mounting criticism following President William Ruto’s visit to his church, urging congregants and followers to rise above fear and discouragement and to remain anchored in God’s Word.

In a Facebook post on Thursday, February 26, 2026, days after the high-profile event at the JCM headquarters in Ruiru, Kiengei reflected on the nature of criticism, fear, and obstacles, framing them as challenges that every believer must confront with courage and faith.

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“What do you fear? Criticism? Failure? What is a discouragement to you? Something someone said or did to you or an obstacle you can’t seem to overcome?” he wrote.

He compared the struggles of ordinary people to the biblical story of Joshua, reminding congregants that the divine remedy for fear and discouragement is the same across generations.

He emphasised that God’s presence accompanies believers wherever they go and that just as Joshua was empowered to possess the Promised Land, so too can individuals claim God’s promises in their own lives.

“God’s remedy to Joshua is the same remedy He gives to us. He said, “The only way to fight fear and discouragement, to be strong and courageous, is to take hold of My Word and obey it. Keep my words always on your lips, and discouragement and fear must flee,” he wrote.

The bishop further encouraged members of Gen Z and the wider church to cultivate resilience and to confront life’s challenges with faith, framing discouragement as a temporary state that can be overcome through Godly guidance and action.

“Get My Word into your thinking and meditate on it until it drops down into the very depths of who you are.” He says He will be with you wherever you go. And if God will bring Joshua to possess the Promised Land, He will bring you to possess His promises, too,” he added.

Backlash over Ruto’s church visit

The remarks come days after President Ruto attended a service at JCM’s headquarters in Ruiru on Sunday, February 22, 2026.

The Head of State arrived at the church in a convoy of vehicles accompanied by heavy security, where he was received by Bishop Kiengei and ushered in through a red carpet before joining other leaders for the service.

During the event, Kiengei introduced various groups within the church to the president, including men, women, and Gen Z congregants, urging them to stand and be recognised.

However, the visit sparked sharp reactions online, with some critics accusing the preacher of contradicting his earlier stance of supporting Gen Z, particularly during recent protests.

Among those who spoke out was emcee MC Chris Kirubi Junior, who had earlier urged Kiengei to use the opportunity to remind the president about the sacrifices made by young people.

“Do not forget to remind him about the Gen Z who died and those who stood up,” he said in a statement ahead of the visit.

JCM pastor’s resignation

Previously, K24 Digital reported that Pastor Charles Wachira of Jesus Christ Compassion Ministry (JCM) USA resigned from his position, citing concerns over recent leadership decisions following confirmation that Bishop Ben Kiengei would host William Ruto at the church.

In an official statement released on Sunday, February 22, 2026, Wachira pointed to what he described as serious concerns regarding leadership principles and public engagements that have unsettled many believers, particularly young people.

He indicated that the decision was influenced by growing unease among Gen Z congregants, whom he said are increasingly calling for justice, accountability and moral clarity during what he termed a sensitive period in Kenya’s national discourse.

“OFFICIAL STATEMENT. PASTOR CHARLES WACHIRA RESIGNS FROM JCM UNITED STATES Citing serious concerns regarding leadership principles and recent public engagements that have deeply disturbed many believers – especially Gen Z, who are crying out for justice, accountability, and moral clarity during this sensitive national season in Kenya,” the statement read in part.

Wachira emphasised that the church must remain responsive to the pain and concerns of the people, warning that it should never appear indifferent in moments of national significance.

He referenced biblical teachings to underscore the responsibility of spiritual leaders to uphold truth, defend righteousness and speak for those who cannot speak for themselves.

“THE CHURCH MUST NEVER APPEAR INDIFFERENT TO THE PAIN OF THE PEOPLE. ‘Woe to those who call evil good and good evil.’” – Isaiah 5:20 “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed.” – Proverbs 3:8, he wrote.