Members of Jesus Compassion Ministries (JCM) International Church, led by Rev. Benson Gathungu Kamau, also known as Muthee Kiengei, are facing a dilemma as prominent women associated with him, including his wife and the church matron compete for influence.
The conflict between Joy Kiengei, Rev. Kiengei’s second wife, and Dama wa Spares, a self-proclaimed church stewardess and mobile phone spares businesswoman, has escalated. Suspicion is that Dama may be romantically involved with the church founder, hence fueling their dispute.
The conflict erupted when Dama posted a TikTok video featuring the Kikuyu song “Kiyo Kia Mutumia” by Sammy Muraya, which translates to “The Determination of a Woman.” Performed with a friend, the song metaphorically criticizes laziness and poor judgment, likening a woman’s role to that of a driver under someone else’s direction. Many saw the song as a subtle jab at Joy Kiengei.
In response, Joy Kiengei shared a video on social media, featuring a song that directly confronted Dama. The message in the song suggested that Dama’s actions would ultimately lead to unfavorable consequences for her.
The online feud led Muthee Kiengei, who is also a comedian and media personality, to disable comments on both his and the church’s social media profiles to avoid intense public scrutiny. He subsequently issued a statement comparing himself to a notable figure and downplaying the disputes as insignificant.
Pundits and online analysts have dissected the drama, proposing that Dama has long been a hidden side partner who is now striving for her place and recognition within the church.
Dama’s role and her association with Kiengei have sparked speculation about her standing within the church. She claims to be a matron and runs a Facebook page for her work at JCM. Her coordinated outfits with Kiengei during services have only intensified curiosity about their relationship.
In the midst of the drama, a blogger from the Mt. Kenya region came to Dama’s defense, emphasizing her business achievements and charitable work while contrasting these with the negative perceptions circulating online.
“She not only focuses on the success on business but also incorporates a deep sense of social responsibility her benevolence extends to her role as a great employer,” the post read
“The charitable tasks have significantly impacted many lives. Many can tell about it from the church programs to other works in the society,” the post added.
Congregants at the church have now divided into two factions. One group criticizes Kiengei for allowing his wife to be disrespected, while the other insists on recognizing Dama wa Spares for her significant role within the church.
The Reverend faces the challenging task of restoring harmony between the two women and ensuring peace within his new church, which is still less than a year old.
