Case against Paul Mackenzie in Malindi closed, to face fresh charges in Shanzu

Paul Mackenzie

Kilifi cult leader Paul Mackenzie (left) and his co-accused in a Malindi court on May 2, 2023.

Photo credit: Wachira Mwangi | Nation Media Group

The case against Shakahola cult leader Paul Mackenzie in a Malindi court has been closed. 

The case was closed as Malindi Principal Magistrate Ivy Wasike ruled that her court does not have the jurisdiction to hear terrorism charges that the prosecution wanted to add in the suit againt Mackenzie.

The Malindi court denied the prosecution’s request to hold them for 90 days pending completion of investigations.

Ms Wasike said her court had no power to give an order for anticipatory bail.

“The file will be closed as the court cannot in its capacity give an order for anticipatory bail.”

“If the suspects will be arrested once they leave this court, this court cannot anticipate or preempt a bail.”

“Any application for bail can be [made at] the court [where] they will be taken. In this regard, this miscellaneous file is closed and the suspects are at liberty unless they are otherwise rearrested”.