"They were supposed to meet Jesus." Pastor sentenced 190 children to death by starvation

A Kenyan pastor, Mackenzie, was sentenced to 200 years in prison for his role in the deaths of 191 people, mostly children, due to starvation. The court found him primarily responsible for instructing followers to fast to death, marking a tragic event in cult history. Prosecutors sought the death penalty, citing the severity of the crimes. Mackenzie, along with 28 accomplices, faced charges related to the starvation and concealment of bodies in mass graves in Shakahola forest. Investigations revealed over 400 bodies, many in advanced decomposition. The cult's doctrine rejected education and modern medicine, and followers viewed Mackenzie as a representative of Jesus. The case highlights failures by local authorities to address the cult's activities.