Africa
Kenya Cult Leader Paul Mackenzie Charged With Terrorism
In April 2013, Mackenzie was apprehended after bodies were discovered in mass graves
Nairobi, Kenya – Paul Mackenzie and 94 co-defendants faced charges of terrorism in a magistrates’ court in Malindi, southeastern Kenya, following the deaths of 429 people, the accused people, including Mackenzie, vehemently denied the charges as they were read out during the court proceedings.
The Kenyan cult leader is alleged to have urged members of his Good News International Church to relocate to Shakahola forest and prepare for the end of the world. Hundreds would later perish.
Other charges related to child torture and assault are expected to be filed during a separate court hearing.
In April 2013, Mackenzie was apprehended after bodies were discovered in mass graves in a remote forest about two hours’ drive from the coastal town of Malindi. Most of the bodies exhibited signs of starvation, but according to media reports, some, including children, may have also been subjected to assault.
The self-proclaimed pastor denies responsibility for the deaths, claiming that his church had been closed since 2019.
The request for bail by the suspects’ defense lawyer has been transferred to another court.