Nairobi, Kenya – (African Boulevard News) – The tragic news continues to break from Kenya as the death toll from the Shakahola cult climb to 303 bodies, with authorities struggling to identify all the victims. This comes after a disturbing revelation that a Kenyan pastor ordered his followers to starve to death to meet Jesus Christ.
The cult, led by Pastor Timothy Njoya, believed that the world was coming to an end and that they would be saved if they abstained from all worldly pleasures and fasted in a barren forest outside of Nairobi. But the cultists’ hunger strikes quickly turned fatal, with members collapsing and dying of starvation and dehydration.
The Kenyan government has been investigating the cult since the first group of bodies were found in the forest three weeks ago. The police have arrested several of Njoya’s followers and charged them with murder. The authorities are also looking to apprehend Njoya, who remains at large and is considered armed and dangerous.
The Shakahola cult has shocked the nation with its tragic consequences, leaving many Kenyans wondering how a religious leader could have such a hold on his followers. Pastor Njoya’s teachings of salvation and eternal life seemed to have persuaded hundreds to follow him blindly.
“The fact that the cult had so many members shows how vulnerable people can be when they are desperate for answers,” said Dr. James Muthusi, a Kenyan psychologist. “We need to educate people on the dangers of cults and how to protect themselves from such manipulation.”
The tragedy has also sparked a debate on the role of religion and spirituality in Kenya. While many Kenyans follow mainstream religions, there is still a significant population that practices unorthodox beliefs, which can sometimes lead to deadly consequences.
The Kenyan government has vowed to crack down on cults and religious groups that exploit their followers. “We will not allow anyone to use religion to endanger the lives of Kenyans,” said President Uhuru Kenyatta in a statement.
The Shakahola cult deaths are a solemn reminder of how dangerous and deadly cults can be. It is essential to remain vigilant and aware of the signs of cults’ manipulative tactics and to seek help if needed. Kenya grieves the loss of over 300 lives in this tragic incident and urges anyone who feels vulnerable to the lure of a cult to seek professional help.