MOMBASA, Kenya — Fresh testimony in the Shakahola massacre case has linked controversial preacher Paul Mackenzie to enforced fasting practices that allegedly contributed to the deaths of more than 400 followers.
During defence hearings at the High Court in Mombasa, the accused person, Lucas Owino Ogok, told the court that Mackenzie persistently discouraged eating, portraying it as sinful and compelling followers to fast.
Appearing before Justice Diana Kavedza, Owino admitted under cross-examination by Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Jami Yamina that the practice of forced fasting played a central role in the deaths recorded in Shakahola.
He further testified that he was assaulted for refusing to comply, reinforcing claims by prosecutors that life within the forest settlement was marked by coercion and strict control.
Owino also revealed that he had adopted extreme beliefs propagated within the group, including the rejection of formal education, which he said was viewed as “evil” because it encouraged independent thinking.
Another accused, Steven Sanga, also known as Steve wa Mtwapa, told the court he relocated to Shakahola after experiencing financial hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Sanga described his stay in the forest as voluntary, stating he worked as a security guard after leasing land for Sh1,000 without a formal agreement. However, he acknowledged that fasting was a common practice among followers, believed to secure “favourable judgement in heaven.”
A third accused, Mark Kiongera Kiarie, testified that he attended meetings where members openly expressed intentions to starve to death. He also admitted to participating in the burial of a body without a coffin.
The testimonies come as the defence case unfolds, with accounts that appear to align with the prosecution’s argument of systematic indoctrination and psychological control within the group.
The Shakahola tragedy, which shocked the nation and drew global attention, has raised serious concerns about religious extremism, state oversight, and the protection of vulnerable individuals.
The case continues to test Kenya’s legal framework on criminal liability, freedom of worship, and the duty of the state to intervene in cases of harmful practices conducted under the guise of religion.
Hearing is set to resume Tuesday, with more accused persons expected to take the stand as the court seeks to establish individual responsibility in one of the country’s deadliest cult-related incidents.
