Kenyan cult leader convicted of killing 190 children, told them to starve 'for heaven'

Paul Mackenzie, a Kenyan cult leader accused of ordering his followers, who were members of the Good News International Church, to starve themselves to death in Shakahola Forest,

A Kenyan doomsday cult leader linked to the deaths of more than 400 people has been convicted of murdering 190 children and one adult.Justice Diana Kavedza ruled on Monday that cult leader Mackenzie, leader of the Good News International Church, used religious teachings to make his followers fast until they died.

In her ruling, Justice Kavedza said that “medical treatment was presented as an instrument of Satan”.Prosecutors said Paul Mackenzie ordered his followers to starve themselves to death to meet Jesus. Howeer, Mackenzie denied the charges and said he had not forced anyone to starve.William Ponda Ngala, whose mother, older brother and two nephews died, said the conviction had brought relief to his family. He also hoped it would stop other religious leaders from exploiting their followers.

Sentencing set for november 6

A hearing to consider arguments before sentencing is scheduled for October 30. Mackenzie and the other convicted individuals are due to be sentenced on November 6.In 2023, more than 400 bodies were found in shallow graves at Chakama Ranch in Kenya’s coastal Kilifi County. Mackenzie’s followers lived in mud huts on the 800-acre property, away from nearby communities and authorities.Mackenzie was arrested and charged with murder along with his wife and dozens of followers.

Some followers later became witnesses for the prosecution. The trial began in 2023.In May 2024, the High Court had ordered prosecutors to reduce the charges to no more than 12. However, the Court of Appeal later ruled that the law does not limit the number of charges that can be brought against a defendant.In April last year, Kenya’s Court of Appeal allowed prosecutors to proceed with 191 murder charges against Mackenzie and his co-accused.