Self-proclaimed pastor Paul Nthenge Mackenzie and 28 co-accused persons are expected to be sentenced today over the Shakahola deaths, in which 190 children and one adult lost their lives.
The 29 were convicted of 191 counts of murder following a High Court ruling delivered in Malindi on October 19, 2026.
Justice Diana Kavedza found that the prosecution had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt, establishing that the accused participated in an organised system of religious radicalisation and enforced fasting that led to the deaths of their followers.
Mackenzie was found to have deliberately misinterpreted biblical teachings to persuade his followers that starving themselves to death would enable them to meet Jesus.
Mackenzie established the Good News International Church, which expanded to approximately 35 branches across Kenya. He had previously faced law enforcement action, including a 2017 arrest over allegations of radicalisation, but was later acquitted in that case.
Of the original 31 accused persons, two died during the proceedings, while Enos Amanya Ngala pleaded guilty to all 191 murder counts and is also awaiting sentencing. The remaining 28, including Mackenzie, were convicted following the trial.
The prosecution is seeking the death penalty for Mackenzie and life imprisonment for the other convicts, while the defence has pleaded for leniency.
The sentencing proceedings are expected to consider the circumstances surrounding the offences, the roles played by individual convicts, and submissions from both the prosecution and the defence.
The case has drawn significant public attention, particularly over the extent of responsibility among those accused of facilitating the deaths and the need for accountability in cases involving religious radicalisation.
The Shakahola tragedy, which came to light in 2023 following the discovery of mass graves in Kilifi County, triggered national debate over religious extremism, accountability and the regulation of religious organisations.
The sentencing is expected to mark a major milestone in one of Kenya's most closely watched criminal cases.
