Paul Mackenzie, leader of the Good News International church in Kenya, has been sentenced to 200 years in prison for the murders of 191 people, including 190 children, after ordering followers to starve themselves and their families to reach heaven before the world ended. The sentence in Mombasa follows his conviction two weeks earlier, and more than 400 bodies have been recovered from shallow graves in Shakahola forest. Mackenzie faces additional charges, including terrorism, over other deaths still under investigation.

Nov 6, 2026

World

Kenyan court sentences starvation cult leader to 200 years

A Kenyan court sentenced self-proclaimed pastor Paul Mackenzie to 200 years in prison for the starvation deaths of 190 children and one adult, victims of his Good News International Church doomsday cult. Justice Diana Kavedza imposed 100 years for murder by starvation and 100 years for direct homicide, while 28 convicted accomplices received various prison terms. More than 400 people are believed to have died in the Shakahola Forest tragedy, where emaciated bodies were found in shallow graves and latrines, some buried alive.

Nov 6, 2026

cult | Axios Times