Residents of Migingo Village in Malindi, Kilifi County, have lifted the lid on the mysterious relocation of controversial pastor Paul Mackenzie in 2015.
Johnson Katana, one of the neighbours, explained that the pastor had come with a mission to convert as many followers as possible to his beliefs.
He further revealed that Mackenzie had purchased a field in Shakahola forest where he relocated in 2022. His church, Good News International, was soon populated by many of his dedicated followers.
Katana noted that some of the adults and children would fast and many marriages dissolved due to Mackenzie’s influence.
The tragic news of the massacre that occurred at the forest last week has gained nationwide attention, with religious and political figures weighing in on the matter.
Nyeri Archbishop Anthony Muheria condemned the act and termed it as extremism, while Evans Omollo, the assistant provost at All Saints Cathedral in Nairobi, insisted that all religious leaders should be held accountable for their actions.
Interior CS Kithure Kindiki also warned the perpetrators of the cult movement, stressing that they will be subjected to severe punishments.
As of Sunday, April 23, 18 more bodies have been exhumed from Shakahola village.
