Kenyan evangelist convicted of 191 murders in starvation cult case

NAIROBI - A Kenyan court has convicted evangelist Paul Mackenzie of murder following a lengthy investigation into deaths linked to his religious sect that practised forced starvation. The conviction relates to the deaths of 190 children and one adult whose remains were discovered in mass graves.

The case has drawn significant attention in Kenya and regionally, highlighting concerns about unregulated religious movements and inadequate safeguarding in faith-based communities. Mackenzie led the sect, which operated under the guise of religious doctrine, imposing extreme fasting practices on its followers that ultimately proved fatal.

Police investigations began after reports of suspicious activity at the sect's compounds. Subsequent excavations revealed mass graves containing numerous remains, prompting authorities to launch a comprehensive inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

The conviction represents a major milestone in a case that has raised questions about regulatory oversight of religious organisations in Kenya and the need for stronger protections against cultic practices. Mackenzie is among several individuals connected to the sect whose cases continue to move through the Kenyan judicial system.

The case has prompted renewed discussions about cult awareness and the importance of community vigilance in identifying potentially dangerous religious groups.