State let people down in Kilifi 'cult massacre' - Azimio MPs

By Peter Ochieng

A section of Members of Parliament (MPs) aligned to the Azimio La Umoja One Kenya have condemned what they termed as 'cult massacre' in Kilifi County.

Over 40 bodies have been exhumed in shallow graves in Shakahola village, Malindi County, since the alarm was first raised about two weeks ago.

They reportedly died after being brainwashed into 'fasting to death' in order to 'meet Jesus,' by local Pastor Paul Mackenzie.

The Pastor is said to run the Good News International (GNI) Church.

Senate Minority leader Stewart Madzayo, his National Assembly counterpart James Opiyo Wandayi and Malindi MP Amina Mnyanzi said they support calls to regulate religious institutions such as churches and mosques, to prevent what is happening in Malindi, in the future.

"We must come up with ways to stop deranged and criminal characters from destroying humanity in the name of religion," said Wandayi, the Ugunja MP.

The leaders, addressing members of the press in Nairobi on Monday said the state failed the people of Malindi when they needed security officers the most.

"As all these were happening, where were the local security officers including the chiefs, police officers and even NIS," said Senator Madzayo.

"We should know our priorities, our police officers cannot only be arresting opposition politicians when such an act is going on in Kilifi," added MP Mnyanzi.

Pastor Mackenzie remains in police custody.

Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Abraham Kithure Kindiki is expected to visit the area on Wednesday, this week.

On Monday, Kenya Red Cross said over 110 people have been reported missing as the probe into Mackenzie's 'dubious' activities continue.