Catholic priest who hosted Kenya's former VP brutally murdered

By Maureen Kinyanjui, GILGIL, Kenya

A Catholic priest from Nyandarua has been found dead under suspicious circumstances, with detectives now pursuing leads to uncover what led to his brutal killing.

Father John Maina Ndegwa (Pictured left), who served at Igwamiti Catholic Parish under the Diocese of Nyahururu, was discovered on May 15, 2025, unconscious and seriously injured by the roadside in Kikopey, Gilgil, more than 119 kilometres from Nairobi.

He later died while undergoing treatment at St Mary Hospital in Gilgil.

Police believe the priest may have been murdered elsewhere and his body dumped at the scene.

His vehicle, a Subaru, has not been found, and detectives suspect it might have been used in the transportation of his body.

Gilgil Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) chief Rahamad Wasilwa said the appearance of the scene suggested the body had been moved.

“It is possible that the Catholic priest was killed somewhere else and his body was dumped there. Detectives have launched an investigation. But the autopsy report will provide the full details that will be used in the investigation,” Wasilwa said.

Father Maina's death has shocked the local community and the Catholic faithful. Just two weeks ago, he had hosted former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and other leaders at a church fundraiser in Igwamiti.

Nyandarua Senator John Methu mourned the priest, saying, “We're in deep shock to learn of the very sudden death of Rev. Father John Maina Ndegwa of Igwamiti parish. Father Maina hosted Rigathi Gachagua, and our team a fortnight ago for the parish's family day. May your soul, my good friend, rest in peace.”

Investigators are now working with telecommunications service provider Safaricom to trace Father Maina's last communications.

“We are working with Safaricom to identify the person the priest contacted before his body was found in Kikopey. In addition, people who came into contact with him before his murder will be investigated,” Wasilwa added.

Police have already interviewed individuals who were last seen with him, as part of efforts to trace his final movements. A homicide team has also joined the investigation.

Father Maina's death has shocked the local community and the Catholic faithful. Just two weeks ago, he had hosted former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and other leaders at a church fundraiser in Igwamiti.

Nyandarua Senator John Methu mourned the priest, saying, “We're in deep shock to learn of the very sudden death of Rev. Father John Maina Ndegwa of Igwamiti parish. Father Maina hosted Rigathi Gachagua, and our team a fortnight ago for the parish's family day. May your soul, my good friend, rest in peace.”

Over the weekend, clergy and parishioners gathered at St Louis Church in Igwamiti to pray for his soul.