By Andrew Kariuki

The defence hearing in the Shakahola massacre case opened at the Mombasa High Court with testimony from the accused that reinforced the prosecution’s claims of indoctrination and coercion within the forest settlement.

Appearing before Justice Diana Kavedza, Lucas Owino Ogok, one of the accused persons, told the court that controversial preacher Paul Mackenzie consistently discouraged followers from eating, describing food as sinful.

Under cross-examination by Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Jami Yamina, Owino admitted that he was assaulted for refusing to fast, a revelation that added weight to the prosecution’s argument that members were subjected to coercion and strict control.

He further testified that he had adopted extreme beliefs while in the group, including the view that formal education was harmful because it “makes people think differently.”

Another accused person, Steven Sanga, also known as Steve wa Mtwapa, told the court he moved to Shakahola from Mtwapa after facing financial difficulties during the Covid-19 period.

Sanga maintained that his stay in the forest was voluntary, stating that he worked as a security guard after leasing land for Ksh1,000 without a formal agreement. However, he admitted that fasting was a common practice among members, which he said was linked to seeking “favourable judgement in heaven.”

A third accused, Mark Kiongera Kiarie, testified that he attended meetings where followers openly expressed intentions to starve to death. He also admitted to participating in the burial of a body without a coffin.

The testimonies are expected to play a key role in the case, which has centred on allegations of systematic manipulation, forced fasting, and deaths linked to starvation.

The hearing is set to resume on Tuesday, with more accused persons expected to take the stand.