Paul Mackenzie’s Son Makes Unexpected Move After Court Hands His Father 200-Year Jail Term

Dan Mackenzie, son of preacher Paul Mackenzie, has welcomed the court’s decision to sentence his father to 200 years in prison over the Shakahola killings, saying justice has been served to the victims.

Dan was present at the Mombasa High Court on Friday, November 6, when the sentence was delivered. His father was convicted alongside 28 co-accused over the deaths of 190 children and one adult in the Shakahola tragedy in Kilifi County.

Speaking after the proceedings, Dan said he felt sorry for his father but believed the judgment represented justice for those who died. He also explained how he avoided joining the religious group associated with the killings.

Dan said he had resisted attending church and following his father’s teachings. His refusal eventually made the preacher stop trying to persuade him to join the movement. Dan believes that decision kept him away from Shakahola.

The court sentenced Paul Mackenzie to 100 years in prison for murders linked to starvation and another 100 years for direct homicide. The terms were ordered to run consecutively, resulting in a sentence of 200 years.

The court found that 183 victims died through starvation, while eight others were killed directly. Prosecutors said followers had been instructed to fast in the belief that they would reach heaven.

The ruling has drawn different reactions from Mackenzie’s relatives. Some have rejected the verdict, questioned the court’s findings and said they intend to appeal.

Their position contrasts with Dan’s response. While he has spoken about his difficult relationship with his father’s religious teachings, other relatives have continued to defend the preacher.

Mackenzie’s conviction marks a development in the Shakahola case, which came to public attention in 2023 after bodies were discovered in the forest. The legal process is expected to continue as the defence pursues an appeal.

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