By Jehoshaphat Kanyoro Njaro
Pastor Victor Kanyari, a name often synonymous with controversy, finds himself once again in the spotlight.
His journey from performing alleged miracles to engaging in explicit TikTok sessions has drawn widespread criticism and raised questions about the boundaries of modern evangelism.
Pastor Kanyari’s recent TikTok activities have stirred significant public outrage. His live sessions, which include explicit discussions about sex have been deemed inappropriate for a religious leader.
In one particularly shocking instance, a woman suggested on live video on TikTok that he should engage in sexual activity with her rather than pleasuring himselfif he ever had need, an interaction that many found deeply unsettling.
Notable public figures, including singer Nadia Mukami, have spoken out against Kanyari’s actions. Mukami criticized his content as “cringe” and called for stricter boundaries for religious figures engaging in content creation.
She stressed the importance of respecting religious institutions and maintaining the sanctity of religious leadership.
This isn’t the first time Kanyari has faced public scrutiny. He had been exposed by journalist Mohammed Ali for staging fake miracles to deceive his followers. This scandal significantly tarnished his reputation, revealing a pattern of behavior that has continued with his latest actions on TikTok.
Despite the backlash, Kanyari has defended his use of TikTok, arguing that it is a modern tool for evangelism. He likened it to television, stating that platforms like TikTok are not inherently bad and can be used positively to spread the gospel.
He has encouraged his followers to engage with his content actively, suggesting that such interaction signifies their desire for blessings and prayers.
The controversy has also drawn the attention of the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB). A letter dated May 22, 2024, addressed to the Chief Executive Officer of KFCB, written by Elvis Onjango, complains about Pastor Kanyari’s TikTok activities.
The letter cites inappropriate behavior and the receipt of vulgar gifts during church services, which are then shared online.
It calls for the KFCB to investigate Kanyari’s content, regulate the online activities of religious leaders, and issue guidelines to ensure moral standards are upheld.
Pastor Kanyari’s journey from performing alleged miracles to creating controversial TikTok content highlights the challenges of modern evangelism.
As the debate over his actions continues, it raises important questions about the ethical responsibilities of religious leaders and the impact of their influence on public morality.
Whether regulatory measures will be implemented to address these concerns remains to be seen, but Kanyari’s actions will continue to provoke strong reactions from both supporters and critics.