CITAM Releases Official Statement On Allegations of Shutting Out Protesters
On 26 June 2025, Christ Is The Answer Ministries (CITAM) issued a press statement, responding to claims that the CITAM Valley Road assembly refused entry to protesters seeking refuge during the Gen Z-led demonstrations in Nairobi’s CBD yesterday. The church’s deputy bishop, Rev. Justus Mugambi, asserted that no one was turned away intentionally and outlined several clarifications
In its official statement, CITAM firmly denied widespread social media claims that its Valley Road premises turned away peaceful protestors seeking refuge during the June 25 demonstrations. The ministry stated that there is no evidence to support these allegations and clarified that security measures were implemented solely for crowd management.
CITAM emphasized its foundational dedication to peace and justice, reiterating its role in fostering societal well-being. Furthermore, the statement highlighted CITAM’s extensive history of involvement in humanitarian aid and disaster response, underscoring its practical commitment to serving communities in times of crisis.
Despite the church’s official denial, online sources and social media platforms are rife with conflicting accounts. News outlets like TV47 Digital and The Kenya Times have reported significant public backlash, detailing claims from protestors who alleged they were denied entry to CITAM Valley Road while attempting to escape escalating violence during the June 25 anti-tax demonstrations.
These protests, which tragically resulted in numerous fatalities, saw messages circulating that urged stranded individuals to seek sanctuary at the church. Critics have voiced disappointment, perceiving a disconnect between the church’s actions and its stated teachings. While a CITAM clergyman, in a video circulating on TikTok, challenged those claiming to have been turned away to come forward, he also notably stated, “We do not intend to investigate the source of those allegations!”
This recent controversy unfolds against CITAM’s broader and earlier stance on national issues. As reported by The Standard (Kenya) on June 19, 2025, CITAM, through its Presiding Bishop Calisto Odede, had already issued a strong condemnation of widespread injustices, police brutality, and a disturbing disregard for human life.
In that statement, Bishop Odede decried the “bloodletting of the innocent” witnessed during various nationwide protests, specifically citing the “cold-blooded execution” of a hawker. CITAM also condemned political figures accused of deploying “hired goons” to disrupt peaceful demonstrations, advocating for accountability and a respect for constitutional rights.
Read:Babu Owino Claims Government Withdrew His Security Over Protest Support
