Overview

• Paul Mackenzie, a Kenyan cult leader, and 29 others have been charged with 191 counts of murder following the discovery of over 400 bodies in the Shakahola forest.
• Mackenzie, who founded the Good News International Church, pleaded not guilty to all charges, including terrorism, manslaughter, and child cruelty.
• Survivors and victims' families report Mackenzie urged followers to fast to death to 'meet Jesus,' leading to the deaths of many, including children.
• Authorities have been criticized for their slow response and lack of regulation over fringe religious groups, despite Mackenzie's history of extremism.
• The case has sparked global attention and calls for stricter control of unscrupulous churches and cults in Kenya.