Controversial preacher Paul Mackenzie and his co-accused have filed an appeal against their convictions and lengthy prison sentences for the Shakahola massacre. Their lawyer, Lawrence Obonyo, submitted a notice of appeal at the Mombasa High Court, citing dissatisfaction with the judgment delivered by Justice Diana Kavedza-Mochache. The appeal is set for directions on November 27, 2026.
Mackenzie was sentenced to 200 years in prison on November 6, 2026, for his role in the deaths of 191 people, including 190 children and one adult, in the Shakahola Forest tragedy. The court imposed a 100-year prison term for murders linked to starvation and another 100 years for deaths resulting from direct homicide, with the sentences to run consecutively. Mackenzie's lawyer has questioned the legality of the 200-year term, arguing that it is constitutionally unattainable and that life imprisonment would have been more appropriate.
The case centered on the deaths of followers of Mackenzie's Good News International Church in Shakahola Forest, Kilifi County. The victims were allegedly persuaded to abandon their homes and undertake extreme fasting in preparation for what they believed was their entry into heaven. Evidence presented in court showed that guards monitored the movement of members and restricted their attempts to leave the forest, with children among those subjected to the practice.
During the trial, the court heard how religious teachings were used to enforce the fasting practice and prevent followers from abandoning it. Children were restrained, denied food, and punished when they attempted to eat or escape. The court found Mackenzie guilty on October 19, 2026, alongside 28 co-accused persons, in connection with the 191 murder victims.
Mackenzie's sentencing followed his conviction, with the court opting for a lengthy prison term rather than the death penalty sought by prosecutors. The appeal now gives Mackenzie and his co-accused an opportunity to challenge the High Court's findings and the sentences imposed against them. Their lawyer intends to address the conviction and sentencing as part of the appeal process.
The Shakahola massacre is one of the most tragic incidents in Kenyan history, with many questions raised about the circumstances leading to the deaths of the victims. The case has sparked a national conversation about the dangers of cults and the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
As the appeal process begins, Mackenzie and his co-accused will have the chance to present their arguments against the convictions and sentences. The court's decision will have significant implications for the victims' families and the broader community, and will likely be closely watched by human rights groups and other stakeholders.
Key points
- Mackenzie's lawyer has questioned the legality of the 200-year prison term, arguing that it is constitutionally unattainable.
- The appeal is set for directions on November 27, 2026.
- Mackenzie was found guilty of murdering 190 children and one adult in the Shakahola Forest tragedy.
