Distraught Son Fears His Mother May Be Among Starvation Cult Victims in Kenya

By Telita Montales , Parent Herald Jun 05, 03:22 am

Photo: (Photo : SIMON MAINA/AFP via Getty Images)

In a shocking and heartbreaking tale of manipulation and tragedy, a cult leader in Kenya has allegedly brainwashed his followers into starving themselves to death. According to CNN, the case came to light when police discovered mass graves in the 800-acre Shakahola forest, where over 200 bodies have been recovered so far. Among the missing individuals is Pamela Mukalasinga, a devoted follower of the cult, whose son fears she may be among the victims.

The teachings of well-known but divisive televangelist Paul Mackenzie captivated Pamela Mukalasinga, a 54-year-old small-scale trader and mother of five, at their modest home in western Bungoma County, Kenya. She would tune in religiously to Mackenzie's Times TV channel and became determined to meet him. Her depression worsened as a result of her eldest daughter's illness, and the promise of a miracle drew her to Mackenzie's teachings.

A Desperate Journey

In June of the previous year, four years after her initial encounter with Mackenzie's teachings, Pamela sold all her family's belongings, including her son's, and traveled nearly 1000km to join Mackenzie in the coastal town of Malindi. For three months, her son, Rodgers Shibutse, heard nothing from her until she called to inform him of her whereabouts. She claimed to have been given a piece of land by Mackenzie himself, but abruptly hung up when questioned further.

Investigations into Mackenzie's activities revealed a disturbing pattern of manipulation and cruelty. According to BBC, two children were allegedly starved to death on his instructions, leading to Mackenzie's arrest. Subsequently, more bodies were discovered in the Shakahola forest, leading to further charges and the exhumation of the victims. Shibutse, desperate for answers, traveled to the forest and witnessed the exhumation process. Devastated, he described the traumatic scene and the torment of not knowing if his mother was among the deceased. As investigations continue, the quest for justice and closure becomes increasingly urgent.

According to Yahoo News, the investigation into Mackenzie's activities has shed light on his rise to prominence as a cult leader. Kenya, a deeply religious country, has faced previous challenges with cults, prompting discussions about the need for tighter regulations for religious organizations. Authorities are investigating how Mackenzie acquired the land where the mass graves were found, raising questions about the awareness of local authorities regarding the situation.

Legal Proceedings and Denials

As legal proceedings continue, Mackenzie and his wife, along with 16 followers, remain in custody. Mackenzie denies the accusations and claims to have never seen anyone starving. His lawyer maintains that no charges have been raised against him, and they await the completion of investigations. The harrowing events surrounding the Kenyan starvation cult have shocked the nation, highlighting the vulnerability of individuals and the dangerous influence of manipulative leaders. The discovery of mass graves serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and protective measures within communities.

As the search for answers and justice continues, the Kenyan Starvation Cult case stands as a tragic reminder of the consequences of manipulation and abuse within cults. The impact on the victims and their families is immeasurable, highlighting the urgent need for tighter regulations and increased awareness. Kenya's government and authorities are faced with the challenge of preventing similar incidents in the future and ensuring the safety of its citizens.