Controversial preacher Paul Mackenzie and 94 co-suspects involved in the Shakahola massacre case have raised concerns over hygiene conditions in prison, requesting soap and toiletries to alleviate skin diseases they claim are plaguing them due to poor hygiene.
Represented by advocate Lawrence Obonyo, the suspects informed Mombasa Chief Magistrate Alex Ithuku of their plight, citing a scarcity of bathing soap leading to outbreaks of skin rashes among detainees, predominantly affecting men.
“The detainees are suffering from skin conditions and urgently require soap to manage the situation. As they are under the care of the state, they deserve proper hospitality,” emphasized Mr. Obonyo.
In addition to the hygiene grievances, Mackenzie sought the court’s permission to meet his wife, Rhoda Mumbua Maweu, also facing similar manslaughter charges at Shimo La Tewa prison.
The couple aims to discuss family matters concerning their children.
Furthermore, Mackenzie expressed a desire to be transferred to a different cell due to mental distress, a request reiterated by his legal representative.
Chief Magistrate Ithuku concurred with the plea for a conjugal meeting, instructing prison authorities to facilitate it for the well-being of the couple’s children.
Additionally, he urged humane treatment for Mackenzie amid his mental health concerns.
Mackenzie and his co-accused face 238 manslaughter charges related to the deaths of over 429 members of the Good News International Church in the Shakahola forest.
The alleged offenses span between January 2021 and September 2023 in the Shakahola area of Malindi Sub-County, Kilifi County.
Despite their pleas of not guilty, the suspects remain in custody as their manslaughter trial progresses.
An earlier attempt to secure temporary freedom was denied by the Mombasa Court, citing the gravity of the charges, flight risk concerns, and potential witness tampering due to the seriousness of the allegations and the transient nature of the suspects’ residency.
The prosecution has requested additional time to organize evidence before the hearing commences, with the court setting a date in May to begin witness testimonies.
The case will be mentioned on May 13 for further proceedings.
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