A video of Neno Evangelism Centre founder Pastor James Ng’ang’a addressing his congregation about the trending “WanTam” slogan has gone viral.
The slogan, which implies President William Ruto should serve only one term, has sparked national debate, but Pastor Ng’ang’a is distancing himself from the conversation.
During a recent sermon, the outspoken city preacher made it clear he wanted no association with the political catchphrase.
“Sijasema term one, don’t bring nonsense here. Tutagombana na wewe bure,” Ng’ang’a declared. “Usiniletee ujinga wewe kwa sababu mtaenda mu edit ati mimi nimesema one term.”
He further clarified that he holds no sway over presidential terms, whether it’s President Ruto or his successor in 2027.
“Mimi ikuwe miaka moja ama miaka kumi… mimi siyuko hapo. Ikuwe ni miaka kumi, mimi sisemi kitu,” he added, stressing his disinterest in political matters.
Pastor Ng’ang’a has frequently made headlines for his controversial takes during church services.
Earlier this year, he rebuked members for failing to contribute financially to the ministry while managing to pay for public transportation.
“Why are you willing to pay for a matatu ride but not give anything here?” he asked, before joking: “You’ve been sitting on these seats for hours—you should be charged by the hour.”
The latest uproar comes amid an ongoing row between the church and Nairobi County officials over alleged unpaid land rates.
County Environment Chief Officer Geoffrey Mosiria had previously claimed that Neno Evangelism Centre owed over Sh10 million in arrears.
However, Pastor Ng’ang’a countered this in another viral video, insisting the debt was settled during former Governor Mike Sonko’s tenure, and no formal reversal of that waiver had been issued.
Mosiria later confirmed the preacher’s claim in an update posted on X (formerly Twitter), stating:
“Our job isn’t to interfere with the gospel but to ensure county dues are settled.”
He further clarified that the church’s land rates had been waived, and its hotel operations had paid the necessary Unified Business Permit fees. This clears the way for the ministry to continue its services without further interference.