Self-proclaimed pastor Paul Mackenzie, the man at the centre of the Shakahola massacre, has told the court that his life is in danger while in custody at Shimo La Tewa Maximum Prison.
Speaking before the Tononoka Children’s Court, Mackenzie claimed he narrowly escaped death after discovering what he believes was an attempted poisoning.
“Niligundua kitu kimewekwa kwa maji yangu… kuna unga mweupe kwa chupa,” Mackenzie said emotionally. “Nilihisi kama mtu anataka kuniua.”
He said he also found tiny pieces of broken glass at the exact spot where he usually takes his meals, making him fear that someone inside the prison wants him dead.
🚨 Panic in the Cell Block
The claims caused a stir in the courtroom as Mackenzie’s lawyers demanded an immediate investigation. They argued that their client’s right to life and fair trial were at risk if his safety could not be guaranteed.
Mackenzie told the court he has since been avoiding food and water inside the prison for fear of being poisoned. His health, he said, has started deteriorating due to the stress and hunger.
“Siwezi kula, siwezi kunywa. Naishi kwa hofu kila siku,” he added.
🧑🏾✈️ Prison Denies Everything
The Officer in Charge of Shimo La Tewa, Abdi Willy Adan, strongly denied the allegations. He told the court that Mackenzie is under tight security and that no inmate can be poisoned inside the prison due to strict checks and surveillance.
“The prison does not supply bottled water,” he said. “We wonder where the alleged contaminated bottle came from.”
Adan added that Mackenzie and his co-accused are treated fairly and that all inmates are subject to daily inspections to prevent contraband or harmful items from entering their cells.
⚖️ Court Orders Investigation
Despite the prison’s denial, Principal Magistrate Nelly Chepchirchir ordered the prison boss to appear in court and respond formally to the allegations.
The court also instructed that Mackenzie’s meals and water be supervised, and the alleged bottle and glass pieces preserved as exhibits pending investigation.
Human rights bodies have since urged the government to ensure Mackenzie’s safety, saying every suspect — no matter the charges — deserves protection until proven guilty.
🕊️ A Case Surrounded by Fear and Faith
Paul Mackenzie remains one of Kenya’s most controversial figures. As the leader accused of influencing followers to starve to death in Shakahola Forest, his case has drawn both anger and sympathy.
Now, with his claims of attempted poisoning, the story takes another shocking turn — raising questions about prison safety, justice, and the treatment of high-profile inmates.
“Even if he is guilty, he still deserves protection under the law,” one observer commented online.
⚡ What’s Next?
The court will continue hearing the matter as investigations proceed. For now, Mackenzie remains under tight watch, while Kenyans await clarity on whether his shocking claim was a desperate cry for help — or another twist in an already dark saga.
