Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) Kabete parliamentary aspirant James Wanjohi is facing renewed public scrutiny over allegations linking him to a KSh600 million jobs scam, triggering backlash among residents ahead of the 2027 elections.
Wanjohi, a pastor, businessman and former founder of Jesus Culture Ministries, ventured into politics in 2022 after seeking the UDA nomination for Roysambu Constituency. His nomination was later nullified by the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal following alleged irregularities.
He subsequently focused on business and ministry activities, including WorthStart Africa and other ventures. However, his business empire came under intense scrutiny in 2024 after investigations linked his agencies to an alleged fraudulent recruitment scheme targeting Kenyans seeking employment abroad.
Investigators alleged that job seekers were promised lucrative opportunities in countries such as Canada but were instead issued tourist visas or had questionable documents submitted on their behalf, resulting in visa rejections, financial losses and, for some victims, travel bans.
Among those who came forward was Ereneta Njeri, who reportedly paid KSh165,000 and later received a five-year Canadian visa ban after allegedly falsified documents were submitted. She eventually moved to Dubai for employment while struggling to repay debts.
Another alleged victim, Lydiah Wangechi, reportedly lost KSh120,000 after being promised employment and assistance in securing legal opportunities in Canada. She questioned whether someone facing unresolved allegations should seek a parliamentary position.
Detectives investigating the case previously alleged that the recruitment operation used multiple companies and strategies, including promising clients that tourist visas could later become work permits. Applicants were also allegedly moved between different entities while paying additional processing fees.
Despite the controversy, Wanjohi has continued building a political presence in Kabete, including youth empowerment programmes and vocational training initiatives. He has also denied wrongdoing, maintaining that his businesses operated legitimately and rejecting allegations of fraud.
The renewed controversy has now placed his DCP candidature under intense scrutiny, with some Kabete residents reportedly reconsidering their support. The allegations have also revived questions about whether political parties should impose stronger integrity checks on aspiring candidates.
As Wanjohi seeks to convince voters ahead of the 2027 polls, the unresolved allegations could become a major campaign issue. The controversy has intensified calls for thorough investigations, accountability and transparent party vetting before candidates facing serious accusations are cleared.