Murkomen vows tough action against religious extremism after Shakahola massacre convictions
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has vowed tough government action against religious extremism and radicalisation, following the conviction and sentencing of controversial preacher Paul Nthenge Mackenzie and 28 co-accused over the Shakahola Massacre that claimed 191 lives, including 190 children. Murkomen said the government would take firm measures to confront religious extremism…
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has pledged decisive government action against religious extremism following the conviction of extremist preacher Paul Nthenge Mackenzie and 28 co-accused for the Shakahola Massacre, which claimed 191 lives, including 190 children. In a statement on November 8, 2026, Murkomen highlighted the government's commitment to addressing religious radicalization while upholding Kenyans' constitutional right to freedom of worship.
He commended the multi-agency team led by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and the Judiciary for securing convictions in one of Kenya's most shocking murder cases. The High Court in Mombasa sentenced Mackenzie to 200 years in prison for the murders, with his co-accused receiving sentences ranging from 10 to 160 years.
The court found that Mackenzie used religious teachings and an organized hierarchy to coerce his followers into deadly fasting practices, with children forced to fast before others. The Shakahola Massacre exposed the dangers of religious extremism and radicalization, prompting the government to consider new measures to combat these threats while respecting religious freedom.
Written by urgent.news from People Daily Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
