Ezrah Kashumbusha.
NAIROBI, January 17, 2024 | The Director of Public Prosecutions in Kenya has filed an array of charges, including murder, manslaughter, assault, radicalization, and engaging in organized criminal activity, against Pastor Paul McKenzie and 95 others connected to the Shakahola cult. The charges stem from a tragic incident in March 2023 when Pastor McKenzie allegedly instructed his followers to starve themselves to death with the promise of reaching heaven before an anticipated end-of-the-world scenario.
The mass tragedy claimed the lives of 429 individuals, including children, and has since become the focal point of legal proceedings following extensive investigations and evidence analysis.
In a press statement released yesterday, Director of Public Prosecutions Mulele Ingoga announced the formal charging of Pastor Paul McKenzie and the 94 others involved in the Shakahola cult-related deaths. The charges include murder under the Penal Code (Section 203), assault causing bodily harm (Section 251), contravention of the Prevention of Terrorism Act, and the Prevention of Organized Crimes Act. Additionally, manslaughter accusations (Section 202 with 205) have been leveled against the suspects.
The individuals are further facing charges of radicalization under Section 12D of the Prevention of Terrorism Act of 2012. The Director of Public Prosecutions emphasized that, upon thorough analysis of the evidence, there is sufficient grounds to prosecute the 95 suspects for their alleged roles in the tragic incident.
Mulele Ingoga stated, “The Director of Public Prosecutions is satisfied that there is sufficient evidence to prosecute ninety-five (95) suspects with charges listed.” The charges reflect the gravity of the offenses and the legal implications for those involved.
The upcoming legal proceedings are expected to shed light on the events leading up to the Shakahola massacre, holding those responsible accountable for the lives lost. The charges underscore the commitment of the Kenyan justice system to address heinous crimes and ensure justice is served for the victims and their families.
