Paul Mackenzie, a well known preacher of the Good News International Church, has been charged alongside 17 others at the Shanzu Magistrate Court. The case is set to be heard by Senior Principal Magistrate Yusuf Shikanda.
Mackenzie, his wife Rhoda Mumbua Maweu, and the other accused individuals are facing serious charges including murder, aiding and counselling individuals to commit suicide, abduction, radicalization, genocide, crimes against humanity, child cruelty, fraud, and money laundering.
The Good News International Church, which was allegedly closed in 2019, is being investigated for the deaths of more than 100 individuals who were believed to be supporters of Mackenzie and the church. These individuals reportedly died due to starvation and were buried in shallow mass graves in Shakahola, Magarini in Kilifi county.
The charges against Mackenzie and his associates are grave and indicate a large- scale tragedy. The accused are alleged to have committed numerous serious crimes that have caused harm to many individuals. The investigation into the deaths of over 100 people in Kilifi county is ongoing, and more details are expected to emerge as the case progresses.
The charges of aiding suicide, child cruelty, and crimes against humanity are particularly concerning, as they suggest a disregard for human life and a willingness to engage in harmful and illegal activities. The case will be closely watched, and the outcome is likely to have far- reaching implications for the accused individuals and the Good News International Church.
During the media update on Thursday, Dr Oduor, the top government pathologist, was accompanied by the Director of the Homicide Unit. They provided information to the public about the ongoing investigation. Dr Oduor consistently linked the deaths to murder and starvation, and noted that some of the bodies had head injuries that could have been the cause of death. During his examination of the bodies on Thursday, Dr Oduor identified one as potentially belonging to a woman and noted that there was bleeding in her uterus.
by: mbevimbevi