By John Ikani
Survivors of a Christian cult in Kenya, totaling 65 individuals, are now facing charges of attempted suicide.
The reason behind these charges stems from their refusal to consume meals provided to them at the rescue center where they were taken.
In light of the development, the prosecution has sought to have the survivors remanded in prison, where comprehensive mental and medical assessments can be conducted, as the rescue center is no longer equipped to accommodate them.
A ruling on this application is expected to be delivered later this week.
In Kenya, self-inflicted death is considered a criminal offense under laws established during the era of British colonial rule.
However, it is noteworthy that these laws were abolished in England more than six decades ago.
Advocates in Kenya are now actively working towards the abolition of such legislation in their own country.
The 65 survivors, allegedly followers of Pastor Paul Mackenzie, find themselves entangled in this legal predicament.
Pastor Mackenzie is accused of leading this cult and convincing his congregants to engage in a fatal fast as a means to attain salvation in heaven.
A disheartening discovery has unfolded in the vast Shakahola forest, located near the coast, where the pastor operated.
Thus far, authorities have uncovered over 280 bodies buried in shallow graves within the forest, with an additional 10 bodies exhumed on Monday alone.
Autopsy reports have unveiled the tragic cause of death for most of the victims, including children, as starvation.
However, distressingly, some individuals were found to have suffered from strangulation, physical assault, or suffocation.
