Margaret Wanjiru, a prominent politician and preacher heading the Jesus is Alive Ministries, has levelled serious allegations against what she describes as clandestine government forces orchestrating the unlawful demolition of her church. The incident, which unfolded on Wednesday, February 6, left Wanjiru injured and her property razed to the ground.
Margaret Wanjiru church demolished
In a tearful address to reporters, Bishop Wanjiru recounted the harrowing ordeal, detailing how she and her supporters were subjected to brutal assaults during the demolition. She expressed her intention to seek medical attention for injuries sustained, highlighting the gravity of the situation. According to her, the attackers identified themselves as representatives of Kenya Railways, alleging that they were acting under orders.
Wanjiru asserted that prior to the demolition, individuals purporting to be from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the National Intelligence Service (NIS) had surveyed the property on Haile Selassie Highway. This suggests a premeditated plan orchestrated by higher authorities.
The former Nairobi gubernatorial candidate vehemently refuted claims that the disputed property belonged to Kenya Railways, emphasizing that it was an investment belonging to her church. She decried the loss of property and the physical harm inflicted on herself and her supporters, denouncing the actions as a violation of their rights.
Furthermore, Margaret Wanjiru expressed profound disappointment in the government, lamenting the betrayal of trust. Despite her active involvement in political campaigns, particularly advocating for the Kenya Kwanza agenda, she found herself targeted by the very system she supported. Wanjiru’s disillusionment reflects a broader sentiment among Kenyan citizens who feel let down by their elected representatives.
Action to be taken
The legal battle surrounding the disputed property adds another layer of complexity to the situation. A previous court case challenging the construction of a wall between Kenya Railways’ land and Wanjiru’s church was dismissed in 2022. The petitioners, including Wanjiru’s Jesus Is Alive Ministries, contested the obstruction of access to various lanes adjacent to the property. However, Kenya Railways asserted ownership of the entire area, disputing the legitimacy of the allocations to Wanjiru’s church and neighbouring properties.
The demolition of Margaret Wanjiru’s church underscores the precarious balance between property rights, government authority, and legal recourse in Kenya. As investigations unfold, questions linger regarding the motives behind the alleged government involvement and the implications for religious freedom and political dissent in the country.
