Cult Leader Faces New Charges in Kenya
Kenyan cult leader Paul Mackenzie and seven others have been charged with organized criminal activity, radicalization, and facilitating terrorism in connection with the deaths of 52 people whose bodies were found in shallow graves in southeast Kenya. According to TV3GH, the charges are part of a broader investigation into the Good News International Church, led by Mackenzie.
The charges stem from the discovery of mass graves in Shakahola Forest, Kilifi County, where over 400 bodies were exhumed in 2023. Autopsies revealed that most died from starvation, while others showed signs of strangulation, beating, or suffocation. Mackenzie’s teachings allegedly encouraged followers to starve themselves and their children to “meet Jesus” before the world ended.
Mackenzie and his co-accused pleaded not guilty to the charges, which include murder, participation in organized criminal activity, and radicalization. The prosecution says Mackenzie masterminded the crimes, using radical teachings to draw victims to the remote site.
The case has sparked national outrage and calls for tighter control of fringe denominations in Kenya. President William Ruto has condemned Mackenzie’s actions as “terrorism”.
The next hearing is scheduled for March 4, with Mackenzie and others remaining in custody.
Source: Aljazeera
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Author: Korkor Anumu
