Pastor Ng’ang’a may escape justice even when guilty

Pastor Ng'ang'a of Neno Evangelism centre PHOTO: COURTESY

In Kenya we are yet to see influential persons thrown to jail or let’s say lose serious cases in court; which is why it is highly unlikely that Pastor James Maina Ng’ang’a will be put behind bars . If he loses he will appeal and the case shall be dragged till it’s ruled out on the basis of insufficient evidence.

The defiant preacher is alleged to have been behind the wheels when his posh range rover was involved in a road accident that killed a woman identified as Mercy Njeri while severely injuring the husband. The televangelist has maintained that he was not driving the said car differing with witnesses who say he was indeed the driver.

What is even more interesting is that the controversial pastor spelt a curse on his accusers saying they will die before their time amidst cheers from his congregation. So, will the police, prosecutors, witnesses or the judge dread this threat or will they be manipulated hence justice denied. I am not saying he is guilty but suppose he is, what we can be sure is that money will exchange hands to open the way to freedom as it has always happened.

Unlike Kenya, a month ago our neighbour, Tanzania sentenced two former ministers to three years in jail over corruption. Also this year Former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi was found guilty of bribery and prior to that ruling he had served a one year community service sentence at an old people’s home where he helped senior citizens for four hours a week.

This is not just it yet, this year in April, Romania’s richest man was sentenced to two and a half years in prison for illegal financing of the 2009 presidential campaign. Other case scenarios are extremely gruesome. Instances when influential people are imprisoned for life or even face execution for various crimes: corruption, murder, sexual offences, and tax evasions, the list is endless. In such countries, no one is above the law not even your money and power can stop the wheels of justice, religious leaders not exceptional.

In Kenya just as any other part of the world, religion is a strong aspect of people’s lives with many putting all their trust in their spiritual leaders. The leaders upon being caught on the wrong side of the law often go back to their flock and claim that the devil is fighting them; in turn  gullible and helpless congregation loyally or is it blindly supports them. The question is, who thinks about the victims?

Kenyans reacted on social media putting pressure on the Inspector General of Police, Joseph Boinett to ensure the prosecution of Pastor Ng’ang’a who is not new to controversy. Kenyans are waiting for the step Director of Public Prosecutions, Keriako Tobiko will take as far as this case is concerned.

A good number say he should prove his innocence in court. Even preachers and any other individuals despite their influence should face the wrath of the law just as any commoner would if found guilty. It is happening in other places in the world, Kenya should follow suit. This way, even the war on corruption can be won.