Chief Executive Officer of the Coast Interfaith Council of Clerics, Dr Stephen Anyenda, testified as an expert witness in the ongoing trial of controversial preacher Paul Mackenzie and 92 others who are facing charges under Kenya’s Prevention of Terrorism Act and the Prevention of Organised Crime Act.
The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) presented the expert before the Shanzu Law Courts, where submitted an extensive expert report on biblical interpretation, particulalry fasting. Anyenda explained that fasting, contrary to Mackenzie’s teachings at the Good News International Church, is not a pathway to heaven.
Dr Anyenda pointed out the grave repurcusiions of misreading Biblical scripture.
“Misinterpretation of the Bible can lead to dangerous consequences, including the rise of religious cults and unbiblical practices,” he told the court.
In his report, Anyenda explained that in Christian faith, believers use fasting to seek divine guidance, repent and strenghten one’s connection with God.
In addition to the spiritual significance of fasting, the religious leader also examined several theological themes such as the biblical view of beauty, apocalyptic prophecy, and the doctrine of the Trinity
Dr Anyenda told the court that he had watched several of Mackenzie’s sermons on YouTube, describing them as extreme, misleading, and detached from sound biblical teaching.
He observed that selective reading of scripture can distort meaning and foster manipulation within faith communities.
“The Bible offers profound wisdom when interpreted accurately, guiding individuals and communities toward truth and righteousness,” Anyenda testified.
The court also heard from a former long-time member of Mackenzie’s Good News Church. She testified how she stopped medical treatment since 2014 as a result of the church’s teachings that reject modern medicine.
The 76th witness told the court that Mackenzie’s followers were discouraged from using beauty products or registering for the Huduma Number, beliefs she admitted she still follows.
The witness hearings are ongoing, with prosecutor Jami Yamina representing the Director of Public Prosecutions(DPP) in the case.
More witnesses are expected to take the stand in the coming days as the prosecution continues to build its case, linking Mackenzie’s teachings to mass starvation, deaths, and radicalization in Shakahola.
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