Pastor Ezekiel Odero has praised Kenyan journalists for their role in uncovering the truth behind the Shakahola tragedy, saying the media helped the country understand the seriousness of what happened and its wider impact on society.
Speaking on Tuesday at Kilifi International School, the New Life Prayer Centre founder met members of the press and openly thanked them for their work, especially during difficult moments when emotions were high and public fear was growing.
Pastor Ezekiel said journalists often work quietly behind the scenes, yet their contribution touches millions of lives every day.
According to him, many people rarely stop to appreciate how much information they receive through the media.
“Many people do not see journalists as important, yet almost everything we know comes through them,” he said.
“Many people do not see journalists as important, yet almost everything we know comes through them,” he said.
“They bring news into our homes, help us understand what is happening, and shape conversations across the country.”
His remarks came at a time when the media’s role during national crises continues to be debated, especially following the shocking events in Shakahola Forest, Kilifi County.
The Shakahola tragedy involved followers of preacher Paul Nthenge Mackenzie, who were convinced to starve themselves in the belief that it would help them meet Jesus. What began as a religious movement later turned into one of the darkest chapters in Kenya’s recent history.
Investigations revealed mass graves in the forest, with victims dying from starvation, dehydration, and in some cases violence. By August 2025, authorities confirmed that at least 457 bodies had been recovered, a figure that shocked both Kenyans and the international community.
Pastor Ezekiel noted that during the height of the crisis, journalists worked under pressure, reporting disturbing discoveries while also facing public anger and confusion. He said many media houses focused on facts rather than rumors or personal attacks.
“I appreciate that many of you tried to tell the truth,” he said.
His remarks came at a time when the media’s role during national crises continues to be debated, especially following the shocking events in Shakahola Forest, Kilifi County.
The Shakahola tragedy involved followers of preacher Paul Nthenge Mackenzie, who were convinced to starve themselves in the belief that it would help them meet Jesus. What began as a religious movement later turned into one of the darkest chapters in Kenya’s recent history.
Investigations revealed mass graves in the forest, with victims dying from starvation, dehydration, and in some cases violence. By August 2025, authorities confirmed that at least 457 bodies had been recovered, a figure that shocked both Kenyans and the international community.
Pastor Ezekiel noted that during the height of the crisis, journalists worked under pressure, reporting disturbing discoveries while also facing public anger and confusion. He said many media houses focused on facts rather than rumors or personal attacks.
“I appreciate that many of you tried to tell the truth,” he said.
“You did not rush to defend anyone, and you did not rush to condemn anyone. You allowed the facts to speak.”
Pastor Ezekiel himself came under intense scrutiny during the investigations, with claims linking him to the Shakahola cult and its leader. His church was searched, and he was questioned by authorities as part of wider efforts to understand how extremist religious practices had spread.
However, in October 2023, a Mombasa court cleared him of any involvement in the Shakahola deaths, citing lack of evidence. The ruling brought relief to his followers but did little to reduce public debate around religious leadership and accountability.
Reflecting on that period, Pastor Ezekiel described it as a time of great personal and spiritual testing. He said fair media coverage helped prevent misinformation from spreading further.
Beyond his personal experience, the tragedy sparked serious national discussions about how religious groups operate in Kenya. Lawmakers, human rights organizations, and faith leaders have since called for stronger oversight, better registration of churches, and increased public awareness.
International attention also followed, with human rights groups raising concerns about how vulnerable people can be manipulated under the guise of faith.
Pastor Ezekiel concluded by urging journalists to continue doing their work with courage and integrity, even when faced with threats or criticism.
“The nation needs you,” he said.
Pastor Ezekiel himself came under intense scrutiny during the investigations, with claims linking him to the Shakahola cult and its leader. His church was searched, and he was questioned by authorities as part of wider efforts to understand how extremist religious practices had spread.
However, in October 2023, a Mombasa court cleared him of any involvement in the Shakahola deaths, citing lack of evidence. The ruling brought relief to his followers but did little to reduce public debate around religious leadership and accountability.
Reflecting on that period, Pastor Ezekiel described it as a time of great personal and spiritual testing. He said fair media coverage helped prevent misinformation from spreading further.
Beyond his personal experience, the tragedy sparked serious national discussions about how religious groups operate in Kenya. Lawmakers, human rights organizations, and faith leaders have since called for stronger oversight, better registration of churches, and increased public awareness.
International attention also followed, with human rights groups raising concerns about how vulnerable people can be manipulated under the guise of faith.
Pastor Ezekiel concluded by urging journalists to continue doing their work with courage and integrity, even when faced with threats or criticism.
“The nation needs you,” he said.
“Your work matters more than you may ever know.”
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