Father John Maina Ndegwa, a Catholic priest whose tragic death shocked the nation, is set to be buried today at the Tabor Hill Spirituality Centre in Ol-Joro Orok Constituency, Laikipia County.
The funeral Mass is being led by Bishop Joseph Mbatia and attended by fellow clergy, members of the Christian faithful, and local leaders who have gathered to pay their last respects to the late priest.
A Shocking Death
Father Maina’s body was discovered last Thursday along the Gilgil-Nairobi Highway. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) revealed that he was abducted from Nyahururu before being dumped on the roadside.
According to a boda boda rider who found him, Father Maina disclosed that he had been kidnapped. He was later rushed to St. Joseph’s Mission Hospital in Gilgil with head injuries but tragically passed away during treatment.
Motive Behind the Murder
Investigations indicate that Father Maina’s death may be linked to a monetary donation he received during a church event on April 27, which was attended by several politicians, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
The DCI stated that certain individuals had been trailing the priest, demanding a share of the donation. Father Maina reportedly expressed fears for his safety to close friends but had not filed an official report with the authorities.
A Community in Mourning
The late priest’s demise has left his community and the church in shock, with many calling for justice. His colleagues and parishioners remember him as a devoted servant of the church who worked tirelessly for his congregation.
Father Maina’s tragic passing also raises broader questions about the safety and security of clergy, particularly in a political landscape where donations and contributions often become points of contention.
Justice and Reflection
As Father Maina is laid to rest, the Catholic Church and the wider community continue to demand a thorough investigation into his death. Many hope this tragedy will serve as a wake-up call to address the risks and pressures faced by religious leaders in their service to society.
