Kenya Shocked by New Graves Linked to Starvation Cult

By Tobias Mutunga

The Common Pulse | August 2025

Kenya has once again been gripped by horror and disbelief after authorities exhumed 32 bodies in Kwa Binzaro, Kilifi County, in what is believed to be a continuation of the Shakahola forest doomsday cult tragedy. The cult, led by controversial preacher Paul Mackenzie, had previously made global headlines in 2023 when mass graves were discovered in Shakahola, exposing one of the world’s deadliest religious extremism cases.

Renewed Grief, Renewed Questions

This latest discovery has triggered fresh outrage over the government’s ability, or inability, to regulate extremist religious movements. Critics argue that despite the shocking events of Shakahola two years ago, little progress has been made in monitoring or shutting down rogue preachers who exploit the poor and vulnerable under the guise of faith.

Authorities confirmed that eleven suspects have been arrested in connection with the new graves. Families of the victims, many of whom are still missing loved ones, are waiting anxiously as DNA testing and forensic identification continue.

A Dark Pattern of Exploitation

Survivor testimonies paint a grim picture: followers were coerced into starving themselves to death with promises of salvation, while some children were reportedly forced into the cult’s deadly rituals. The exhumations once again highlight the intersection of poverty, blind faith, and manipulation, a potent mix that extremist preachers have exploited for years.

Government Under Fire

Civil society groups and opposition leaders have accused the state of failing in its duty to protect citizens. They point to the fact that Mackenzie had previously been arrested and released multiple times before the first Shakahola massacre, raising questions about complicity or negligence within security agencies.

“Kenya cannot afford another Shakahola,” said one human rights activist, demanding stricter laws to regulate religious institutions and hold leaders accountable.

The tragedy has once again sparked debate on whether Kenya should establish a special regulatory body for religious organizations, something that has faced resistance in the past over fears of limiting religious freedom. At the same time, many Kenyans are asking whether justice will truly be served this time, or if this case too will fade without meaningful reform.

As the country mourns yet again, the haunting question remains: How many more graves will it take for Kenya to act?