Charles Muhia Ng'ang'a, founder of Mamlaka Hill Chapel, has filed a petition to be reinstated as bishop after being dismissed in June 2026. Ng'ang'a founded the chapel in August 2005 and claims his gross monthly salary was Sh1.2 million. He is seeking over Sh21 million in compensation, covering a year's salary and accrued annual leave. The petition was filed at the Employment and Labour Relations Court. Ng'ang'a's dismissal followed a disciplinary process that he claims was flawed.
According to Ng'ang'a, he was suspended on 27 March 2026 and later issued a notice to show cause for alleged gross misconduct in June. However, he alleges that he was not given sufficient time to prepare for the disciplinary hearing. Ng'ang'a also contends that no complainants or witnesses testified in his presence, leading to the revocation of his ordination. His internal appeal was rejected, prompting him to pursue legal redress. The Employment and Labour Relations Court will hear his petition.
Prof Onesmus Muroki Thuo and Winnie Maru, representing 17 church members, have applied to join the case. They argue that the dispute extends beyond employment to the church's governance and members' constitutional rights. The applicants warn that any compensation awarded could be drawn from church funds contributed by members. This could raise concerns about the financial impact on the congregation. The church members are seeking to participate in the case to protect their interests.
Church officials maintain that the Elders' Court overseeing the disciplinary process was properly appointed and ratified by the congregation. They assert that the process was procedurally legitimate. However, Ng'ang'a and the church members have raised concerns about the process. The hearing on Ng'ang'a's petition and the applicants' request for participation is scheduled to continue on 27 October 2026. The court will review the evidence and arguments presented by both sides.
Ng'ang'a's petition seeks not only reinstatement but also interim orders. The court will consider whether to grant these orders while the case is ongoing. The dispute has raised questions about church governance and the rights of members. The outcome of the case could have implications for the church and its congregation. Ng'ang'a's lawyer will argue that his client's rights were violated during the disciplinary process.
The Mamlaka Hill Chapel was founded in 2005 by Ng'ang'a. The church has grown significantly since its inception. However, the current dispute has raised concerns about the church's leadership and governance. The court's decision will be closely watched by the church members and the wider community. The case highlights the importance of fair and transparent disciplinary processes in institutions.
The case will continue on 27 October 2026. Ng'ang'a and the church members will present their arguments to the court. The court will then make a decision based on the evidence and arguments presented. The dispute has already had a significant impact on the church and its members. The outcome will be crucial in determining the future of the church and its leadership.
Key points
- Charles Muhia Ng'ang'a seeks Sh21 million in compensation for his dismissal.
- Ng'ang'a claims the disciplinary process was flawed and denied him a fair hearing.
- 17 church members have applied to join the case, citing concerns about church governance and their constitutional rights.
