The Director of Public Prosecution has prepared at least 90 witnesses to testify against cult leader Paul Mackenzie and 94 others in a terrorism-related case at the Shanzu Law Courts. Mackenzie and his co-accused face 13 acts of terrorism charges for their involvement in the deaths of 448 people, whose bodies were exhumed from Shakahola Forest.

Charges Across Multiple Courts

In addition to terrorism charges, Mackenzie and the co-accused are facing charges of murder, manslaughter, and child cruelty in the Malindi High Court, Mombasa Magistrate Court, and Tononoka Children’s Court, respectively. Allegedly, between 2020 and 2023, members of the Good News International (GNI) Ministries, an organized criminal group, engaged in activities in Shakahola Forest that led to the deaths of over 448 followers.

Extensive Time in Custody

Mackenzie has been in custody for more than 451 days since his arrest on April 15 last year, while his co-accused have also been detained for over 400 days. The Shanzu Magistrate Court has begun extensive hearings, featuring key witnesses including victims, police officers, and children.

Witness Protection and Testimonies

This week, the court will hear from five witnesses: a victim, a doctor, a child, and two police officers investigating the case. On Monday and Tuesday, the media was barred from covering the first witness due to a court order obtained by the Witness Protection Agency to protect their identity. Out of the 90 witnesses, 12 are under protection, including nine children and three adults.

Prosecution’s Case

Senior Assistant DPP Jami Yamina described Mackenzie’s operation as a “ruthless and efficient” criminal enterprise, masquerading as a church. To support the prosecution’s case, both direct and circumstantial evidence will be presented, including testimony from 90 witnesses and various forms of documentary and digital evidence.

Criminal Enterprise and Governance

The court heard that the group operated under a structured system with communication networks, transportation, and security measures to enforce Mackenzie’s directives. Witnesses, some under protection, will describe the group’s hierarchical structure, overseen by Mackenzie and Smart Mwakalama, and recount the group’s activities.

Extremist Ideology and Legal Responsibility

The prosecution will present evidence illustrating the extremist ideology promoted by the accused, which led to actions classified as murder or manslaughter. Witnesses will reveal how the accused advocated for a transcendent state of blissful transition to spiritual realms. The DPP aims to show that the accused must be held responsible for their actions based on the evidence and testimonies provided.