Kenya pastor charged in 303 deaths after followers starved to meet Jesus

Kenyan authorities have confirmed that the death toll associated with the Good News International Church sect has exceeded 300. The fatalities are linked to a directive issued by the sect’s leader, Paul Mackenzie, who allegedly instructed his followers to starve themselves as a means of meeting Jesus. The discovery of 19 additional bodies in mass graves within a large forest area in Kilifi County, located on the coast of Kenya, brought the confirmed number of deaths to 303.

Regional Commissioner Rod Onyancha stated that 613 individuals had disappeared in connection with the sect. The interior minister, Kindiki Kiturre, indicated that further bodies are expected to be exhumed. He suggested that Mackenzie could face charges related to terrorism or genocide, reflecting the severity of the alleged crimes.

Police intervention began in April after reports indicated that dozens of people were starving following the pastor’s instructions. Mackenzie was arrested during this period, having previously been charged with the disappearance of children. He was subsequently released on bail, a decision that drew criticism from Kenyan President William Ruto, who compared Mackenzie to a terrorist.

Among the victims were 95 children who had been rescued by authorities. On June 12, 65 of these children were charged with attempted suicide after they organized a hunger strike in protest of their circumstances. These children were subsequently transferred to prison, highlighting the complex legal and humanitarian challenges facing the survivors.

Mackenzie is expected to return to court this week, as police have been granted additional time to complete their investigation. The sect, led by Mackenzie, had a significant number of local residents as adherents. Investigations revealed that the spiritual leader convinced his followers that starvation was the required path to reunite with Jesus.

The case underscores the urgent need for institutional accountability and the protection of vulnerable communities from abusive religious leadership. As authorities continue to investigate the full scope of the tragedy, the legal process aims to establish the facts and ensure justice for the victims. The situation calls for a sober reflection on the responsibilities of leaders and the necessity of safeguarding the well-being of those under their care, consistent with principles of mercy and justice.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Ukrainian)