Kenyan Cult Leader Accused of Manslaughter Goes on Trial
A Kenyan cult leader, Paul Mackenzie, has gone on trial for manslaughter in relation to the deaths of over 400 of his followers, which is considered one of the deadliest cult tragedies in history. Mackenzie, the leader of the Good News International Church, faces charges including murder, child torture, and “terrorism” after hundreds of bodies, believed to be followers who starved to death under his orders, were discovered in April.
Mackenzie had previously pleaded not guilty to multiple manslaughter charges in January, but prosecutors plan to pursue the cases under Kenyan laws addressing suicide pacts. On Monday, he appeared in a magistrate’s court in Mombasa alongside over 90 other suspects.
The trial has raised broader concerns about the lack of oversight on self-proclaimed pastors and religious figures in Kenya, a country where faith plays a significant role in daily life. Al Jazeera’s Stefanie Dekker reported from Mombasa that Mackenzie appeared frail in court but maintained a commanding presence among his followers.
“This case is unprecedented in Kenya, it’s very unique,” said Prosecutor Alexander Jami Yamina. Some witnesses will give their testimonies in private due to the sensitive nature of the case.
The trial includes 55 men and 40 women, who were charged last month with “terrorism” related to the mass deaths in Shakahola, along with additional charges of murder, child torture, and cruelty. Prosecutors allege these crimes occurred between 2020 and 2023.
In March, authorities began releasing some of the victims’ bodies to their families after months of DNA identification work. So far, 34 bodies have been returned.
The shocking case has prompted the Kenyan government to consider stricter regulations on fringe religious groups. The Kenyan Senate and a state-funded human rights organization have suggested that the deaths might have been prevented with better oversight. In response, President William Ruto has established a commission to investigate the tragedy and review the regulation of religious organizations. The commission recommended a combined approach of self-regulation and government supervision for religious groups.
The trial is expected to be long and complex, with many questions yet to be answered about the tragic events surrounding the Good News International Church. As the investigation continues, the world waits to see justice served for the victims and their families.
