Pastor Paul Mackenzie, embroiled in the controversy surrounding the demise of over 400 people in Shakahola, Kilifi County, has accused authorities of infringement on his rights.
In an appearance at the Shanzu Law Courts on Wednesday, Mackenzie caused a stir by passionately exclaiming that both his and the rights of his 15 co-accused companions were being violated while under custody.
Chanting “Haki yetu” (Our rights), he asserted that the denial of bail symbolized the government’s intention to persist in their rights abuses and harsh treatment.
“I’ve endured two days without food and bathing due to being confined in darkness around the clock. Those in authority are orchestrating this treatment, so I’m left wondering who will come to my aid?” questioned Mackenzie.
The televangelist from the Good News International church alleged torture while in detention. He disclosed to the court that he had been confined to a dark cell and his appeals to be allowed outdoors for some sunlight had fallen on deaf ears.
He went so far as to suggest that the government should consider killing him rather than subjecting him to the ordeal of imprisonment.
“If you’re weary of our presence and have no intention of granting us basic human decency, you might as well end our lives and dispose of our bodies in River Yala. After all, we’ll all meet our end someday. This court needs to intervene as I am undergoing tremendous suffering,” pleaded the pastor.
The prosecution requested a 47-day extension for Mackenzie’s detention in order to conclude their investigations. The court is slated to deliver its decision on the prosecution’s appeal on Thursday.
With over 425 individuals confirmed dead in the suspected cult tragedy, the toll continues to rise, with more than 600 individuals still reported missing.
