Paul Mackenzie received a 200-year prison sentence over the Shakahola murders.
The Mombasa High Court imposed two consecutive 100-year terms, while other convicts received sentences ranging from 10 to 160 years.
The High Court in Mombasa sentenced Paul Mackenzie to 200 years in prison on Friday, November 6, 2026. The punishment follows his conviction over the Shakahola killings, including the starvation deaths of 190 children and one adult.
Lady Justice Diana Kavedza Mochache imposed 100-year terms for each of the 191 starvation-related murder counts. Those sentences will run concurrently, meaning Mackenzie will serve them at the same time.
The judge also imposed concurrent 100-year terms for each of eight counts involving the direct killing of children. However, the two groups of sentences will run consecutively, producing a total prison term of 200 years.
Paul Mackenzie sentence excludes death penalty
Prosecutors had sought the death penalty, but Justice Kavedza noted that capital punishment remained discretionary and reserved for exceptional cases. She instead chose imprisonment, citing the possibility that Mackenzie could help locate missing children’s remains.
The judge also said execution would end any prospect of disengagement and rehabilitation. Keeping Mackenzie alive could therefore help families still seeking answers about their missing children.
In explaining the punishment, Justice Kavedza stressed the scale of the crimes and the suffering of victims and families. She said sentencing must punish offenders, condemn their conduct and deter similar crimes through a tangible loss of freedom.
Other convicts face prison terms and rehabilitation assessment
Meanwhile, the other convicts received prison terms ranging from 10 to 160 years, depending on their responsibility and involvement. Most received aggregate sentences of 160 years, while some also face a further three years of probation.
The court ordered assessments for all convicts except Mackenzie for a programme recommended by the National Counter Terrorism Centre. The programme covers disengagement, deradicalisation, rehabilitation and reintegration.
Under the proposed framework, eligible convicts could apply for sentence reviews after serving one-third or half of their custodial terms. However, applications would require certification from the NCTC and regional authorities confirming disengagement and readiness to rejoin society.
The sentencing followed the October 19, 2026 judgment finding Mackenzie and 28 co-accused guilty on all 191 murder counts. The court found that prosecutors had proved their case beyond reasonable doubt.
In that judgment, Justice Kavedza found that the Good News International Ministries leader directed followers to starve to meet Jesus. Children were the first targets, followed by young people, women and men.
The court also found that organised indoctrination, intimidation and violence enforced the fasting, rather than voluntary participation.
