In a somber turn of events, authorities in Kenya have initiated the release of the remains of individuals who tragically lost their lives in a cult that reportedly advocated for starvation as a means to expedite the arrival of the apocalypse.
Out of the 429 bodies unearthed from the remote Shakahola forest in the eastern region of the country, 34 have been identified with the assistance of DNA samples provided by their relatives. On Tuesday, seven sets of remains were handed over to three grieving families.
The cult’s leader, self-proclaimed Pastor Paul Nthenge Mackenzie, allegedly preached a doomsday message, urging his followers to embark on prolonged fasting to hasten the return of Jesus. However, Mackenzie denies these accusations.
Among those receiving closure were high-school teacher Francis Wanje, who received the remains of his daughter, son-in-law, and grandson, among others. Tragically, Wanje lost eight family members, and their mysterious disappearance played a pivotal role in uncovering the mass graves concealed within the dense forest.
Relatives of the deceased received psychological support from members of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) as they grappled with overwhelming grief upon viewing the remains of their loved ones.
The painstaking process of identification, spanning over a year, has been hampered by the extensive decomposition of many bodies, logistical challenges, and limited resources for DNA testing.
While the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights has criticized the delay, government pathologist Johansen Oduor highlighted the reluctance of families to claim the bodies, complicating the identification efforts.
Moreover, financial constraints have posed additional hurdles for some families, with one bereaved individual unable to afford transportation for his relative’s body.
As legal proceedings unfold, Mackenzie and 29 other defendants face charges, including the alleged murder of 191 children. Despite their pleas of not guilty, the case continues to shed light on the tragic consequences of the cult’s teachings.