The founder of the Holy Ghost Coptic Church, Father John Juma Pesa, has passed away.

According to reports, Pesa died on Thursday, May 28, while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Kisumu County. 

The exact cause of his death has not yet been confirmed.

After his passing, Pesa’s body was transferred to the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) mortuary, where it is currently being preserved.

Pesa was widely known for building a large independent church movement that attracted followers from across western Kenya.

He began his religious journey after breaking away from the Roman Catholic Church in the early 1970s before establishing his own ministry.

Pesa’s ministry became especially known for its work with vulnerable people, including individuals suffering from mental health challenges and addiction, many of whom were housed within the church compound for prayer and spiritual care.

However, his leadership also attracted significant controversy. 

Authorities and human rights groups raised concerns over conditions within the church premises, including allegations of mistreatment and confinement of some individuals, leading to several investigations and rescue operations over the years.