The case of the Shakahola sect continues in Kenya where devotees have had to fast to death for “ meet jesus “. The case went to Kenyan justice on Wednesday June 7, at the Shanzu court, near the city of Mombasa.
With our correspondent in Nairobi, Albane Thirouard
Defense lawyers say some of the 35 detainees in the case have gone on hunger strike. They ask for guarantees on the impartiality of the trial. They denounce a statement made by the Minister of the Interior, Kithure Kindiki, who asserted that the leader of the sect, Paul Mackenzie, would end his days in prison, regardless of the outcome of the trial. A few days later, the minister announces that justice has all the necessary elements to prosecute the self-proclaimed pastor for ” genocide ” And “ crimes against humanity “.
In front of the senators, Kithure Kindiki gave the details of the modus operandi of the sect. Framed by an armed gang, those who decided to stop the fast were beaten. THE autopsy reports reveal that bodies, including some of children, bore the marks of beatings and strangulation.
Justice wants more time to investigate. The excavations resumed on Tuesday June 6 and are far from over. The search area has increased from 300 to 15,000 hectares as new remains continue to be exhumed. 251 remains have already been found in the Shakahola forest, 95 people have been rescued. The Minister of the Interior also announced that the site of Shakahola would be transformed into a memorial site when the excavations are completed.
The prosecutor is asking for a 60-day extension of detention for Paul Mackenzie and his fellow prisoners, who are currently still in police custody. The defense has seven days to prepare its response before the court gives its decision.
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