Bungoma preacher Eliud Wekesa controversially known as Yesu wa Tongaren has hinted that his followers are stingy and that he is living in abject poverty in the western part of the country.

In a video circulating on social media, Wekesa refuted claims that he enjoys a comfortable lifestyle and insisted that he possesses no material possessions.

The preacher emphasized that he doesn’t even own a basic bicycle, and his church is constructed from mud, reflecting his humble circumstances. His living conditions are similarly modest.

“They that came to my place on Saturday took photos of the offerings and counted the offerings too. They found out that it was only 250 Kenyan shillings,” he said.

In addition to the monetary contributions, several members also presented six tomatoes and four onions as offerings.

Yesu wa Tongaren asserted that the only assets he possesses are his distinctive bushy hair, white beard, and his skill in delivering sermons.

He addressed widespread allegations that he is a fraudulent religious leader exploiting his followers for personal gain.

Eliud Wekesa slams journalists for not giving him money

In May 2023, Yesu wa Tongaren expressed his dissatisfaction with the media, asserting that they benefit from covering his story but do not reciprocate in kind.

Addressing news reporters, Wekesa boldly stated, “I will not hesitate to say this: many people tell me that you have grown wealthy by covering my story.”

The preacher urged journalists to provide financial support whenever they visited him, given that they have consistently profited by generating news about him.

“It is very hard even to give me KSh 1,000 for soda. However, I don’t focus on money because I have a calling. Many people said I had lost my mind when I started my ministry,” said Yesu wa Tongaren.