What Teresia Wairimu Told Kenyan Youth After Viral ‘Wantam’ Chants At Rhema Feasts

Reverend Teresia Wairimu has sparked a fresh debate after addressing Kenyan youth days after President William Ruto faced loud “Wantam” chants during the Rhema Feast in Nairobi. WATCH THE VIDEO.

Wairimu delivered her message during a gathering on September 7, where she spoke passionately about the direction of Kenya’s younger generation and the political tensions dominating public conversations.

The renowned preacher said she had spent days praying for the country and particularly for young Kenyans, whom she described as an important generation in shaping the nation's future.

At the heart of her message was what she described as a need to restore a “culture of honour”.

She reminded young people of traditional values, including the respect children were expected to show when their parents entered a room.WATCH THE VIDEO.

Wairimu then turned her attention to politics, which has increasingly become a major source of debate among Kenyan youth.

She urged young people to avoid being manipulated by politicians and instead focus on respecting God and those in authority.

Her remarks came shortly after Ruto's appearance at the Rhema Feast was reportedly met with “Wantam” chants from sections of the audience.

The phrase has become associated with calls for the President to leave office at the end of his term.

The preacher warned against allowing political leaders to use young people as instruments in political battles. She called on Christians to pray for the younger generation and for the country.

Her comments, however, immediately triggered mixed reactions online.WATCH THE VIDEO.

Some Kenyans questioned whether religious leaders should encourage young people to remain silent when they feel dissatisfied with the government.

Others defended Wairimu, arguing that her message was about maintaining respect, peace and personal values rather than endorsing any political leader.

The debate also reopened broader questions about the role of the church in Kenya's political affairs, particularly at a time when young people are increasingly vocal about governance, accountability and leadership.

For her supporters, Wairimu's message was a call for discipline and responsible citizenship.

For her critics, however, asking young Kenyans to “zip their mouths” risks discouraging legitimate civic participation.WATCH THE VIDEO.

Regardless of the differing interpretations, her remarks have added another layer to the growing national conversation about the relationship between Kenya's youth, religion and politics.