Preacher Paul Mackenzie's Trial: Shakahola Massacre Case Marred by Delays and Controversies

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      Image; Paul Mackenzie in a court proceeding

Paul Mackenzie, the preacher accused of leading the Shakahola cult that resulted in the deaths of over 400 people, including children, is alive, contrary to rumors of his death. His lawyer, Lawrence Obonyo, today 2/12/2024 confirmed this while addressing the delays in Mackenzie’s case. The case has been hampered by financial and administrative challenges within the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP).

The prosecution cited a lack of funds and a shortage of available prosecutors to continue the trial. Despite objections from the defense, the court adjourned proceedings, with the next hearings scheduled for March 2025. Obonyo criticized the delays, noting that Mackenzie and his co-accused remain in custody without bail, and at least three suspects have died in custody during the prolonged trial. He argued this denies them their constitutional right to a fair and speedy trial.

The case remains a significant public interest matter due to the horrific nature of the allegations, including the starvation and abuse of followers in the Shakahola forest.

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