Joseph Kaloe Munyalo, a Kenyan national and pastor seeking refuge in Canada, failed to report for his scheduled deportation back to Kenya on Saturday.
Following his absence, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) issued a warrant for his arrest on October 20, 2025.
“As such, the Canada Border Services Agency issued a warrant for his arrest,” Rebecca Purdy, a senior CBSA spokesperson, said.
Munyalo fled Kenya in 2023, citing fears of religious persecution. He is affiliated with Jesus Returning Evangelism Ministries International.
Munyalo’s fears were linked to the Shakahola massacre, where over 400 bodies were found, and alleged cult leader Paul Nthenge Mackenzie was charged.
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“I have no connection with that story, but the people who want to terminate you, they can hide with any story so that they may capture you, or stone you, or to exterminate you,” he told The Hamilton Spectator.
Canada Immigration Rules
Canadian authorities ruled that Munyalo did not face a personal risk if returned to Kenya.
“The claimant has not established on a balance of probabilities that he would be personally subjected to a risk of torture, risk to life or risk of cruel and unusual treatment or punishment should he return to Kenya,” the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada stated.
Despite this, Munyalo’s failure to comply with deportation orders led to the issuance of an arrest warrant. He remains at risk of detention until the case is resolved.
Life in Canada
While in Canada, Munyalo worked with GenTek Building Products and later trained as a personal support worker through the Institute for Health Personnel.
“I like to serve people. As long as you are touching the lives of people, doctors, they are touching the lives of people, teachers, the same. Serving people is service,” he said, reflecting on his work.
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“He’s done everything right, he’s been paying taxes, been working toward the future,” Sarah Wayland, former senior project manager at Hamilton’s Immigration Partnership Council, said.
“It’s bound to increase given the number and the trends. People are afraid to go home, and they’re afraid for their lives, or they don’t see a future where they’ve come from,” She added.
Munyalo’s case continues to be monitored by the CBSA as authorities seek to enforce deportation while balancing humanitarian concerns.
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