Apostle James Maina Ng’ang’a of Neno Evangelism Church has issued a stern warning to Kenya’s youth. As the country marks the anniversary of the 2024 Finance Bill protests, the preacher is calling for calm and prayer.
The protests, which peaked on June 25, 2024, saw thousands of young people take to the streets. The demonstrations were largely led by the "Gen Z" demographic.
They were protesting against tax hikes and the high cost of living. According to reports from the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), dozens lost their lives during the unrest, with hundreds more injured or abducted.
A Call for Restraint
Speaking to his congregation, Apostle Ng’ang’a urged the youth not to rush back to the streets. He noted that the wounds from the previous demonstrations are still fresh.
"Gen Z, can I ask you this time, don’t go. Relax," the Apostle said. He emphasised that the period of mourning for those lost in the June 2024 protests has not yet passed.
"Come down first of all. Let us pray first of all because we just finished the mourning the other day.”
The preacher also addressed those encouraging the youth to demonstrate. He claimed that many leaders and influencers who call for street action do not put their own families at risk.
Ng’ang’a pointed out that while local youth face danger, the children of those inciting them are often safely abroad. He challenged these leaders to bring their own children to the front lines.
"These people using you, their children don’t die. Their children are in America, they are in London," Ng'ang'a stated. "If you are to go, let them go with their children."
A Spiritual Warning
Beyond the political risks, the Apostle spoke of a "spiritual trap" targeting the younger generation. He described a hidden danger aimed specifically at strong, promising young people who represent the future of the nation.
"There is a trap set somewhere to take the blood of the youth... it wants the youth. And these youth are the strong ones."
He referred to these young people as those with a shining star. He believes they are being targeted by spiritual forces of destruction.
Prayer Over Protests
Apostle Ng’ang’a framed his message as advice from an elder and a friend. While he acknowledged that the road belongs to you, he urged the youth to wait and see what action God would take first.
The Apostle’s message highlights a shift in the narrative surrounding the protests. While the anger over economic policies remains, there is a growing conversation about the safety and spiritual well-being of the protesters.
The June 25 commemorations remain a sensitive time for the country. Many families are still seeking justice for those killed or disappeared during the 2024 events. For Apostle Ng’ang’a, the priority now is preservation of life through prayer and patience.
