ODPP Closes First Case in Shakahola Massacre: A Milestone and Its Implications
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has formally closed its first case against preacher Paul Nthenge Mackenzie and 35 co-accused in the ongoing Shakahola massacre trial. Tuko.co.ke – Kenya news.+1
This case, heard at Tononoka Children’s Court, focused on crimes against children: cruelty, torture, and denial of education. The trial began in July 2024 and involved dozens of witnesses. The Star+1
Key Evidence Presented
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A Safaricom data analyst, Dennis Muriithi, helped trace phone numbers and registration details tied to Mackenzie and his associates. Tuko.co.ke – Kenya news.+1
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A young woman, Israel Veronica from Chakama, testified that she and her siblings were pulled out of school in 2019 by family members who believed education was sinful. Tuko.co.ke – Kenya news.+1
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Inspector Phoebe Okomo (DCI Children Protection) detailed the rescue of 27 children aged between 1½ and 17, describing abuses including beatings, withdrawal from school, and harsh fasting. Tuko.co.ke – Kenya news.+1
The prosecution called 76 witnesses in total, producing over 100 exhibits. The Star+1
What “Closing the Case” Means
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This does not mean Paul Mackenzie is off the hook — other cases (murder, terrorism, manslaughter) against him are still pending. Tuko.co.ke – Kenya news.+1
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The case will be mentioned on October 14, 2025 to confirm whether proceedings are ready for submissions. Citizen Digital+1
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Closing means the prosecution has presented all its evidence in that particular case. The defense now has opportunity for submissions, arguments, and for the judge to consider the sufficiency of evidence.
Why This Matters for Kenyans
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It signals progress in a case that has deeply shaken public conscience. The Shakahola ordeal involved hundreds of victims, many of them children. Tuko.co.ke – Kenya news.+1
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It underscores the importance of prosecuting crimes against children, ensuring they have legal protection, especially in cult or extremist settings.
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It highlights the role of gathering strong digital forensics (phone records, communications), rescuers & child protection units, witnesses with first-hand testimonies.
Challenges Still Ahead
| Issue | Why It’s Significant |
|---|---|
| Victims’ emotional & psychological recovery | Many children rescued are traumatised; counselling is essential. Tuko.co.ke – Kenya news.+1 |
| Ensuring fair trial | Defense rights, evidence authenticity, avoiding delays are crucial. |
| Completing related trials (murders, terrorism) | These are major charges; delay in those raises public concern. |
| Accountability of co-accused | Some are parents or guardians who actively participated; justice needs to cover them too. |
Final Thoughts
The ODPP’s closure of the first Shakahola case represents a major legal step. Still, full justice remains distant until all charges, especially those involving death, are addressed. For Kenya, this marks both a moment of hope and a reminder of the hard work ahead—to heal, punish, and prevent repeat tragedies.
