The court has ordered the hospitalization of the controversial preacher and prime suspect in the Shakahola massacre, Paul Mackenzie, along with 94 others who are staging a hunger strike.
In a statement released by the Office of the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), it was confirmed that medical professionals would assess the suspects’ nutritional and health status.
Chief Magistrate Alex Ithuku issued the orders on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, after being informed of the hunger strike that the suspects had embarked on for several days.
“Mombasa Law courts Chief Magistrate Alex Ithuku has today ordered that Shakahola key suspect Paul Mackenzie and 94 others be taken to hospital after staging a fresh hunger strike. Hon. Ithuku’s directive comes after an application by the prosecution seeking to have the accused persons examined by medical practitioners on their nutrition and health condition,” the ODPP stated.
According to the ODPP, urgent intervention is necessary to address the situation faced by the accused persons, who have reportedly been on a hunger strike for an extended period.
Principal Prosecution Counsel Alex Gituma, along with Prosecution Counsels Victor Simbi and Yassir Mohamed, argued that sections 13 and 15 of the Persons Deprived of Liberty Act guarantee the right to nutrition, diet, and healthcare by a medical practitioner or nutritionist.
