Pastor Victor Kanyari with Marion Naipei during Wednesday church service at his church./SALVATION HEALING MINISTRYIn a development that has captured national attention, Pastor Victor Kanyari publicly welcomed Marion Naipei, the woman at the centre of a viral indecent video.
Kanyari gifted her with Sh50,000 during a church service on Wednesday, January 21, 2026.
The event follows intense public debate and legal scrutiny sparked by the circulation of a video that showed Naipei in a highly vulnerable state after being filmed while intoxicated at a local entertainment venue in Nairobi.
During the service, Pastor Kanyari introduced Naipei to his congregation, many of whom recognised her from the trending video and encouraged an atmosphere of empathy rather than ridicule.
“This is not the moment to attack her; it’s time to stand beside her,” Kanyari told the congregation, remarking that Naipei had become well-known through no choice of her own.
Kanyari’s approach appeared designed to reframe the public narrative from one of shame and judgment toward one of support. He highlighted that Naipei is a single mother, asserting that harsh public reactions had compounded her suffering.
He also referenced his own controversial past, suggesting it informed his willingness to stand with those who have faced public scrutiny.
The pastor described his actions as a seed of support rather than a complete solution to her challenges.
“And today, because you are my friend, I bless you with Sh50,000. I know you’ll never be down again,” he told her.
Marion after she was gifted 50,000 by Kanyari./SALVATION HEALING MINISTRY
He also publicly assured Naipei that his church doors remain open to her and that she should not be ashamed to seek help. Kanyari’s message was one of resilience and faith, encouraging her not to let shame define her future.
The Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA-Kenya) issued a public statement warning that sharing private videos without consent violates Kenyan law and deepens harm to victims. The organisation cited constitutional protections for privacy and human dignity as well as provisions in the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act.
Pastor Kanyari’s actions, both his welcoming of Naipei into his church and the financial gift, have drawn mixed reactions online. Supporters praised him for showing compassion and offering tangible support to someone in crisis, while critics questioned the role of a religious leader appearing to condone conduct many see as inappropriate or exploitative.
As of this reporting, investigations into the incident continue, and Naipei has said she hopes justice will be served for the harm she experienced. Meanwhile, Kanyari’s gesture has added a new dimension to the story, focusing attention on community support and redemption, even as legal and ethical questions remain at the forefront of public debate.
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