Hearing of Shakahola Deaths Case Involving Pastor Mackenzie and 94 Others Begins at Shanzu Court
a witness provided critical testimony, revealing that “Mackenzie used technology and social media platforms to lure victims to the forest before introducing them to religious and radical ideologies.
By Esther Njeri
The hearing of the Shakahola deaths case, involving Pastor Paul Mackenzie and 94 others, will be held today, July 10, 2024, at Shanzu Court. They are charged with involvement in the deaths of 429 individuals, whose bodies were exhumed from the Shakahola forest last year. In addition to these charges, they face 13 counts of terrorism.
Shanzu Magistrate Leah Juma has directed that witnesses testify over two periods: from July 8 to 11 and from July 22 to 25, 2024. The hearing commenced on Monday and will continue until Thursday, with witnesses testifying under legal protection. Magistrate Juma emphasized the importance of a thorough and fair process, stating, “The court is committed to ensuring that justice is served, and the voices of the victims and their families are heard.”
During the proceedings on Tuesday, a witness provided critical testimony, revealing that “Mackenzie used technology and social media platforms to lure victims to the forest before introducing them to religious and radical ideologies.” This tactic, according to the witness, was instrumental in drawing individuals into the Shakahola forest, where they were subsequently exposed to extreme beliefs and practices.
Further testimony indicated that Mackenzie had made promises to the victims, claiming that “they would build houses and farms in the Shakahola forest and reside there.” These assurances were part of a broader strategy to entice and retain followers under the guise of establishing a self-sustaining community.
The court sessions have been intense, with detailed accounts and evidence being presented. The protection of the witnesses has been paramount, as noted by Magistrate Juma: “The safety and security of our witnesses are crucial to the integrity of this trial. We will ensure that they can testify without fear of retribution.”
As the hearing progresses, the court aims to uncover the full extent of the activities and motivations behind the tragic events in Shakahola. The testimonies provided are expected to shed light on the methods employed by Mackenzie and his associates, as well as the impact on the victims and their families.