The Machakos Salvation Army Church has been thrown into chaos as congregants held two separate services on Sunday March 3, 2025 due to an ongoing dispute between two factions over allegations of financial misconduct.

The division, which has persisted for weeks, stems from accusations of embezzlement leveled against the church’s officer in charge, Captain Mutisya.

For the second consecutive time, members of the Machakos Citadel Salvation Army Church found themselves divided, with one faction, led by Isaac Muviku, staging their service outside the church building.

The protesting group accuses Captain Mutisya of unilaterally increasing his salary without the congregation’s approval and failing to implement crucial development projects, including the renovation of the church’s cloakrooms, which they claim are in a deplorable state.

“We cannot sit back and watch as the church’s resources are mismanaged. The congregation’s contributions should be used for development, not personal enrichment,” said Muviku.

The disgruntled faction has vowed to escalate the matter by petitioning the Salvation Army’s headquarters in the United States, seeking external intervention.

Tensions in the church have been brewing for months, with last month’s confrontation turning physical when the protesting faction refused to worship alongside Captain Mutisya’s supporters. They insist that normal services will only resume once he is removed from office.

Despite the ongoing turmoil, Captain Mutisya’s supporters have maintained their stance, insisting that due process should be followed before any drastic action is taken.

The leadership wrangles at Machakos Citadel Salvation Army Church highlight a growing concern over financial accountability in religious institutions, raising questions about governance and transparency in church operations.

As the dispute rages on, congregants remain hopeful that a resolution will be found to restore unity and order within the church.

Written by Linah Towett