I No Longer Want Special Treatment! Mackenzie Tells Court:

Paul Mackenzie, the main figure in the Shakahola massacre case, has filed a petition to the court claiming coercive treatment by prison authorities. 

He alleges that he is being forced to accept medical care and food provisions against his will, which he believes could pose a threat to his life. Mackenzie, who faces charges related to the deaths of over 400 followers, requested that the court ensure he is treated like other inmates, including standing in line for meals and rejecting medical transfers without his consent. 

He expressed concern that the special treatment he is receiving could be used to harm him. The Shakahola case, one of Kenya’s most harrowing cult-related tragedies, has sparked national and international attention.

The accused, including Mackenzie, are charged with orchestrating a starvation cult in Kilifi County, leading to the deaths of numerous victims. In a recent court hearing, emotional testimonies from victims' families were presented. 

Charles Adundo, an elderly man, recalled the last time he saw his grandchildren before they vanished. Felida Vugusa described the disappearance of her daughter, son-in-law, and five grandchildren, who had become involved in the cult.

Forensic experts and government officials also gave evidence, including the progress in identifying exhumed bodies. Henry Kiptoo, a government analyst, confirmed that DNA tests had matched 69 bodies to 333 family samples.

Additionally, fingerprint analysis revealed over 35 suspects who had allegedly used false identities.