The Kenyan government plans to release some of the bodies of Shakahola starving cult victims next week. Out of the hundreds of bodies that were exhumed last year, at least thirty-four have been recognized and connected to their families.
Four hundred and twenty nine people’s bodies, including several children, were exhumed from graves in Shakahola, a secluded woodland outside of Malindi, a seaside town. The majority had evidence of malnutrition and assault.
Self-described “pastor” Paul Mackenzie urged followers of his Good News International Church to relocate there and get ready for the end of the world, according to survivors and the relatives of the victims.
His instructions to fast in order to “get to heaven” are reported by the survivors.
Chief government pathologist Dr. Johansen Oduor stated on Wednesday that while the government will offer advice to the victims’ relatives, it will not help them move the bodies for burial.
Mr. Mackenzie has disavowed any involvement in the fatalities. He is presently on trial together with a number of his supporters on terrorism, murder, and torture-related accusations.
Thirty-five more grave sites have been located, according to Dr. Oduor, who also stated that more exhumations are planned to take place in 1 to 2 weeks.
The anticipated further exhumations might increase the death toll even more.
Due to “people not coming up to claim their loved ones,” according to Dr. Oduor, the process of connecting bodies with their families has been delayed.
