•High Court Principal Judge Eric Ogola presided over the swearing-in on behalf of Chief Justice Martha Koome.
•So far, 113 bodies have been exhumed and subjected to post-mortem examination while another 21 graves with an unknown number of bodies were identified.
Image: FILE
A commission tasked to investigate the Shakahola mass deaths was on Monday sworn in as reports claim 20 new graves had been identified.
President William Ruto's Commission of Inquiry was sworn in despite Azimio la Umoja leader Odinga having moved to court to stop the process.
He accused President Ruto of acting in contravention of the constitution by forming the Commission of Inquiry.
But on Tuesday, High Court Principal Judge Eric Ogola presided over the swearing-in on behalf of Chief Justice Martha Koome.
The eight-team member headed by Court of Appeal Judge Jessie Lesiit, will investigate the deaths, torture, inhuman and degrading treatment of members and individuals associated with the Good News International Church in Malindi, Kilifi County, led by Pastor Paul Mackenzie.
Other members of the commission include Lady Justice Mary Kasango, Eric Gumbo, Bishop Catherine Mutua and Jonathan Lodompui.
Also Frank Njenga, Wanyama Musiambu and Albert Musasia.
The commission also has joint secretaries Oliver Karori and Rachel Maina. It will also have Kioko Kilukumi as its lead counsel, assisted by Vivian Nyambeki and Bahati Mwamuye.
President Ruto appointed the commission of inquiry into the Shakohola deaths through a gazette notice on May 5, 2023
The head of state said Lady Justice Jessie Lessit will chair the commission, together with sevens others.
The commission's mandate will be mainly to inquire into the deaths, torture, and inhumane and degrading treatments of members of the Good News International Church.
"The team will establish the circumstances under which the deaths and inhumane torture occurred," the gazette notice said.
Justice Lesiit on Monday said the task ahead was daunting and promised that they would do their best.
Among those present in the ceremony was Attorney General Justin Muturi.
By Monday, 65 people had been rescued in various parts of the expansive ranch while another 25 had been arrested and were assisting police with investigations.
So far, 113 bodies have been exhumed and subjected to post-mortem examination while another 21 graves with an unknown number of bodies were identified.