This archive report was first published on 7 July 2019.
On July 5, 2019, the burial ceremony of Pastor Shem Ngoko took place at Miriri in Nyamira County. Pastor Ngoko was the director of stewardship and church development activities at the East Kenya Union of the Seventh Day Adventist Church.
Politicians from Nyamira, including Senator Eric Okong'o, Women Representative Jerusha Momanyi, and Borabu MP Ben Momanyi, were present at the ceremony. However, they were initially denied the opportunity to address the mourners.
According to Dr. Thomas Nyakundi, the Executive Secretary of the Nyamira SDA Church, the politicians were only allowed to introduce themselves, but not to make any statements. This decision was made in line with the SDA church's doctrine, which prohibits politicians from speaking non-Christian messages in the pulpit.
Chief Justice David Maraga, who was also in attendance, described Pastor Ngoko as a 'spiritual hero' who had accomplished his works of servanthood in the Gospel mission.
Despite the initial denial, the politicians managed to persuade Dr. Nyakundi to allow them to speak briefly. However, their statements were cut short by the church leader.
