Popular digital content creator Lydia Wanjiru has recently taken a strong stance against Pastor Kanyari and several content creators for what she describes as “playing with God.” The controversy erupted following a video where content creators Peter Kioi, Rish Kamunge, and a friend were seen gifting the pastor with condoms, Arimis (a popular skin care ointment in Kenya), and Kotex tampons in front of a church congregation.
Lydia did not mince her words in her criticism. She expressed deep disappointment in the actions of these individuals, highlighting the disrespectful nature of their prank. She said that it is really disappointing to see these content creators stoop so low, emphasizing that playing with such items in a church setting shows a lack of respect not only for the place of worship but also for the faith and beliefs of the congregants.
She didn’t stop there. Lydia also called out the congregation for their reaction, pointing out that many of them were clapping and recording the incident instead of standing up against what she deemed as inappropriate behavior.
This incident isn’t the first time Pastor Kanyari has found himself in hot water due to his actions. During a previous Sunday service, a female TikToker named Faith M Peters presented Kanyari with a gift that left everyone speechless: condoms. Peters’ offering also included panty liners and petroleum jelly. She then surprised the congregation further by professing her love for the recently-single pastor. Kanyari, clearly amused by the situation, accepted the gifts and even unwrapped them on the pulpit, sparking a wave of mixed reactions.
Another controversial moment involved Kanyari’s infamous “exorcism” attempt on a TikTok live, aimed at a gay TikToker named Mpenzi Chokuu. Chokuu, known for his flamboyant style, was dressed in a buibui, a traditional long robe, when Kanyari launched into his act. The “prayer” was a perplexing mix of religious pronouncements and military jargon, with Kanyari shouting “fire!” and referencing grenades and machine guns. Chokuu playfully added to the theatrics, vigorously shaking his behind in response to Kanyari’s mock exorcism. While some viewers found it humorous, others condemned the perceived disrespect for religion.
In response to previous criticisms, Pastor Kanyari defended his actions, stating that his motivations for joining TikTok were not about personal gain. “Joining the platform is not going to make me rich if I’m not already rich,” he said in an earlier interview. “I joined TikTok because I noticed that it is mostly the younger generation and I wanted to reach out and save some lives. There are a lot of tragedies and I think we can make a difference. There are a lot of drug addicts on the platform and I hope to help and guide them.”
In a country where religious values are held in high esteem, these incidents have sparked a conversation about the fine line between humor and respect within sacred spaces. Many Kenyans have taken to social media to share their views, with opinions divided on the matter.
One thing is clear: Lydia Wanjiru’s bold stand has highlighted an issue that many feel strongly about, bringing to the forefront the need for greater respect and decorum in all spheres of life, especially within the church.
