Ready to die: Mackenzie followers on hunger strike unable to walk

A section of followers of cult leader Paul Mackenzie could barely walk to Shanzu Law Court on Wednesday after they staged a hunger strike while in police custody.

At least five out of 30 persons who are being held together with Mackenzie had to be supported by police officers to walk to the courtroom.

Police and prosecution sources said they had staged a hunger strike for 10 days.

They were being held in three police stations, Malindi, Kilifi and Watamu.

The Shanzu Magistrate Court is today expected to rule on whether Mackenzie, his wife Rhoda Maweu and 28 other co-accused persons will continue staying in police custody for another 60 days.

The ruling, which was to be delivered last week, was pushed to this week after the prosecution counsel fell ill.

Mackenzie and his associates are blamed for the deaths of over 300 individuals at Shakahola forest in Kilifi County.