Prosecution witnesses recounted harrowing details surrounding the alleged actions of pastor Paul Nthenge Mackenzie and his co-accused, all linked to the tragic deaths of numerous followers in Shakahola Forest.
Mackenzie, along with his wife Rhoda Mumbua Maweu and 93 others, is facing 283 counts of manslaughter.
The testimony unfolded as witnesses described how Mackenzie distorted biblical verses to push extreme ideologies that led to malnourishment and deaths.
One of the prosecution witnesses, testifying in camera, indicated that Mackenzie interpreted the Scriptures to justify fasting practices that saw devoted followers deny their children food and water, ultimately leading to their demise.
A 17-year-old girl, taking the stand, explained how Mackenzie exploited biblical teachings, specifically refuting the well-known verse, “Whoever doesn’t want to work shouldn’t be allowed to eat.”
Instead, he urged followers to abandon all forms of labor, education, and personal care, guiding them toward a strict regimen of fasting and prayer, often claiming it was a divine mandate.
Describing the conditions within the forest, the witness revealed that Mackenzie referred to the deaths of followers as “weddings” – a concept that framed their passing as a mere journey to meet Jesus.
Heart-wrenchingly, she recalled witnessing the deaths of six individuals, including a child, near their makeshift shelter.
The testimonies sparked deep concern as details emerged about the presence of armed militia among the accused, who allegedly protected Mackenzie’s camp from local residents and herders.
Evidence was presented from Hamara Hassan, the former Officer Commanding Lango Baya police station, detailing complaints made against Mackenzie regarding the mistreatment of children and suspicious activities leading to deaths.
Hassan, who participated in investigations alongside DCI detectives, detailed a grim discovery in Shakahola Forest where they found 15 emaciated followers, two of whom died at the scene and another on the way to the hospital.
This witness was pivotal in the eventual arrest of Mackenzie and his family.
The prosecution team, led by Senior Assistant DPP Peter Kiprop, expressed their commitment to pursuing justice for the victims of this heinous case.
Hearing resumes on Thursday
