A witness in the Shakahola manslaughter trial has told the court that she stopped using all forms of medicine more than a decade ago after embracing the teachings of the Good News International Ministry, led by controversial preacher Paul Mackenzie.
Testifying on Wednesday, the witness said she relied exclusively on prayer whenever she fell ill, insisting that followers were taught that medical treatment was “dangerous” and created through “satanic minds.” She described herself as a devoted member of the ministry for over ten years and part of a group referred to as wateule — believers who considered themselves deeply faithful.
“I have not used any medicine for over 10 years. Whenever I fall ill, I rely solely on prayer,” she said.
She told the court that Mackenzie taught his followers to reject education, hospitals and beauty products, claiming they were worldly influences that drew people away from God. She said that before fully joining the ministry, she worked as an accountant, a job she quit in 2018 after being convinced it was “earthly” and was turning her into a “thief.”
According to her testimony, she absorbed Mackenzie’s teachings through church sermons, Times TV broadcasts and YouTube videos, including messages on “the beast,” “kazi ya mteule,” and “njia ni nyembamba.”
During the hearing, the prosecution played a video recording in which Mackenzie was heard saying: “My role is to brainwash people of their sins so that their soul meets Jesus Christ in heaven.”
The case has continued to expose disturbing details of alleged cult activities in Shakahola, where more than 400 followers are believed to have died from starvation and indoctrination inside the forest last year.
Mackenzie, who founded the Good News International Church, is facing multiple charges under the Prevention of Terrorism Act and the Prevention of Organised Crime Act, including murder, terrorism, child torture and leading a criminal organisation.
He pleaded not guilty to several manslaughter charges in January. Prosecutors have indicated that some of the cases will also be handled under laws related to suicide pacts. The trial is ongoing.
