Bishop Dismisses Snake Attack Claims Against Uhuru Kenyatta, Blames Media for Exaggeration
A senior Kenyan cleric has strongly criticized media reports alleging that a snake nearly attacked former President Uhuru Kenyatta during a church service in Mombasa, insisting that the incident was grossly exaggerated and distorted.
Bishop Mary Kagendo Francis of Kisima cha Neema cha Mwana wa Daudi Church said reports suggesting that a snake slithered toward the then President-elect and was shot dead by his security detail were inaccurate and sensationalized.
Speaking during a crusade at her home in Mulango, Kitui County, the bishop said she only learned about the alleged incident through media reports and was surprised by the dramatic version of events being circulated.
What Really Happened?
According to Bishop Kagendo, inquiries conducted after the reports emerged revealed that the reptile involved was merely a small green snake that was spotted near the church grounds.
She explained that the snake was not anywhere near Uhuru Kenyatta and was not killed by presidential security officers. Instead, she said, a young boy noticed the reptile and killed it using a stick.
“The reports created unnecessary panic and controversy over what was a very minor occurrence,” she stated.
The bishop expressed disappointment that a simple incident had been transformed into a major political story, fueling speculation and misinformation.
Wildlife Sightings Common Around the Church
Bishop Kagendo noted that encounters with wildlife are not unusual at the church because of its location and natural surroundings.
She explained that the church frequently hosts large congregations outdoors, making occasional interactions with animals unavoidable.
“We regularly see monkeys, baboons, birds, and sometimes small snakes within the area. This is part of living close to nature,” she said.
The cleric emphasized that the church generally coexists peacefully with wildlife and does not encourage harming animals unless absolutely necessary.
Bishop Rejects Witchcraft and Political Conspiracy Claims
The church leader also dismissed claims circulating in some quarters that the snake may have been linked to political rivals or supernatural forces targeting Uhuru Kenyatta.
She described such allegations as baseless and irresponsible, urging Kenyans to avoid spreading rumors without evidence.
According to the bishop, attempts to associate the incident with witchcraft or political sabotage only serve to inflame tensions and distract from factual reporting.
Warning Against Spreading False Information
Bishop Kagendo warned that individuals responsible for spreading what she termed “alarmist falsehoods” could face consequences, although she did not specify the actions she intended to pursue.
She called on media organizations and members of the public to verify facts before publishing or sharing information, especially when involving national leaders and sensitive issues.
The incident highlights the growing challenge of misinformation and sensational reporting, where minor events can quickly escalate into national headlines before facts are fully established.
Lessons from the Incident
The controversy serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible journalism and fact-checking. While unusual events often attract public attention, accuracy remains essential in maintaining public trust.
As clarified by church leadership, the so-called “snake attack” was far less dramatic than initially reported, involving a small snake that posed no direct threat to the former President-elect.
Ultimately, Bishop Kagendo hopes the focus will return to the church’s spiritual mission rather than unverified stories that generate unnecessary fear and speculation.
