Archbishop found guilty in 15-year-old land fraud case

By Citizen Reporter Published on: October 23, 2025 07:46 (EAT)

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By Priscah Elsie

The Archbishop of the African Israel Nineveh Church, John Mweresa, will be sentenced on November 10 after he was found guilty of fraudulently acquiring the church’s land in Jebrok, Vihiga County, by the Hamisi Law Court.

Resident Magistrate Nicodemus Moseti ruled that there was enough evidence to convict Mweresa, ordering that he remain in custody until the day of sentencing.

The magistrate rejected the defence lawyer’s request to release Mweresa on bond.

“I have already convicted the accused. I wish to point out that the law applies uniformly and therefore I decline to grant the accused moniferencial treatment. Accordingly, I hereby order that the accused’s bond be cancelled. He shall be remanded in custody forthwith. I order a pre-sentence report mention for sentencing on the 10th day of November,” Resident Magistrate Nicodemus Moseti said.

The case has dragged on for about 15 years after the church was closed down.

It had made national headlines, with at least five people killed in land-related clashes between church followers and some leaders.

Archbishop found guilty in 15-year-old land fraud case

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