Power struggles, sex scandals shadow PAG church's 100th anniversary celebrations

The Pentecostal Assemblies of God Kenya (PAG-K) has marked its centenary — a milestone celebration that reflected both remarkable progress and a legacy clouded by leadership wrangles, financial scandals, and allegations of misconduct.

During the event at Nyang’ori in Vihiga County, the church’s triumphs and controversies were laid bare, illustrating the complex history PAG-K has built over the past century.

President William Ruto’s remarks at the celebrations reignited debate over the church’s troubled leadership. He questioned why his Sh10 million donation to the church in 2019 had never been acknowledged.

“I promised to help this church last time and gave a donation of 10 million shillings, but I have not heard you acknowledge that. How am I supposed to add more donations if you failed to recognise the last one?” Ruto asked.

The President’s comments rekindled memories of the divisions triggered by the donation. Then–General Superintendent Patrick Lihanda later admitted the gift had caused friction among clergy, some of whom accused the leadership of blurring the line between faith and political influence.

Reports at the time suggested unease within the church over how the donation was handled, with accusations of mismanagement. Lihanda even claimed his life was in danger following the contribution from the then–Deputy President.

Now, as it celebrates 100 years since its founding, PAG-K once again finds itself under public scrutiny.

Contested election

From its humble beginnings with Canadian missionaries in the 1920s to a network of 4.6 million members, 8,000 pastors, and 7,000 assemblies nationwide, PAG-K has evolved into one of Kenya’s most influential Pentecostal movements. Yet, that growth has often been overshadowed by power struggles, election wrangles, and allegations of financial and sexual impropriety.

Leadership disputes within the church stretch back to 2015 but reached crisis point between 2018 and 2020, during contested elections for General Superintendent and district officials. Rival factions emerged, one styling itself the “PAG-Caretaker,” after the disputed re-election of Lihanda in 2019, allegedly held at 3am despite a court order suspending the polls.

The elections deepened divisions within the church. Lihanda’s tenure became synonymous with claims of mismanagement and even abduction. In one incident last year, he alleged he was kidnapped during elections in which his challenger, Kenneth Adiara, eventually triumphed. Weeks later, Pastor Ben Omolo of Evojo PAG was reported missing, with his family linking the disappearance to church politics.

The long-running feud culminated in October 2024, when Rev. Adiara won a landslide victory, garnering 2,472 votes against Lihanda’s 120 and Dr Christopher Kilasi’s 96.

“This was one of the darkest times for our church,” recalled congregant Mercy Endesia. “We went through trials that shook our faith, but we emerged stronger.”

Sexual misconduct

Beyond leadership disputes, PAG-K has faced allegations of sexual misconduct among clergy, misuse of church funds, and misappropriation of political donations. Adiara has since suspended several preachers accused of moral failings and pledged to restore integrity and order to the pulpit.

Lihanda snubbed the centenary celebrations — a symbolic absence that highlighted ongoing divisions despite Adiara’s appeal for reconciliation.

Despite its turbulence, PAG-K’s contribution to Kenya’s social and spiritual life remains profound. Since Canadian missionaries Charles Selmon and his wife arrived in Nyang’ori in the early 1920s, the church has intertwined evangelism with education and community service.

The missionaries established schools, hospitals, and training centres that transformed Vihiga and neighbouring regions. By the 1950s, the movement had spread across Nyanza, the Rift Valley, and Nairobi, and by independence, it had become a spiritual and social refuge for Africans seeking empowerment and leadership.

Officially registered in 1965, PAG-K became a pillar of education, healthcare, and social justice, running several schools, orphanages, and hospitals.

In his address, Adiara said the church was committed to its mission of spreading the gospel and transforming lives.

“As we enter our second century, we remain committed to spreading the gospel, serving communities, and raising generations grounded in faith and service.”

Many of the faithful who attended the celebrations at Nyang’ori Boys High School expressed optimism that the church was entering a new era of unity and renewal.

“We believe Christ is taking back His church,” said Francis Kamadi, a long-time member. “This centenary marks the beginning of spiritual restoration and community growth.”