Why judge chose 200 years over death sentence for cult leader Paul Mackenzie

Judge explains why the prosecution's request for the ultimate punishment did not find favour.
High Court judge Diana Kavedza-Mochache (right) refused to issue a death sentence for cult leader Paul Mackenzie.
Prosecutors in the case against cult leader Paul Mackenzie and his co-accused had asked High Court judge Diana Kavedza-Mochache to sentence him to death.
She declined, instead handing Mackenzie a 200-year jail term and triple-digit sentences to his co-accused.
Court sentences Mackenzie over starvation deaths at Shakahola Forest.
Court testimonies, family accounts reveal how his teachings evolved into a deadly doctrine.
For many, Shakahola followed a process of mobilisation, persuasion and radicalization.
'Even if he were to be hanged, I will never see my children again.' — Stephen Mwiti, who lost six children.
Despite the milestone, public health experts warn against premature celebration.
Lissu was found guilty of a minor charge of incitement.
KeNHA’s proposed toll of Sh8 per kilometre has sparked fierce backlash over fears of double taxation.
- judge
- death
- sentence
- cult
- leader
- paul
- mackenzie
- prosecution




