|
LISTEN TO THIS THE AFRICANA VOICE ARTICLE NOW
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Government Declares Mackenzie’s Church a Criminal Organisation
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has declared Pastor Paul Mackenzie’s Good News International Ministries an organized criminal group.
This move, announced Wednesday, stems from Section 22(1) of the Prevention of Organised Crimes Act. The Act empowers the Minister to declare a group criminal if “engaged in any organized criminal activity,” following advice from the Commissioner of Police.
The ministry, based in Shakahola, Kilifi County, has been shrouded in controversy, suspected of operating as a cult and implicated in the deaths of over 400 individuals between 2021 and 2023.
Ongoing court proceedings involving Mackenzie and 94 co-accused have revealed the grim scale of the tragedy. Forensic analysis of 429 recovered bodies has been hampered by extreme decay, impacting the investigation and autopsies.
Despite denying all charges, the suspects face a staggering 238 accusations, including terrorism and radicalization. They will remain in custody during the extended 180-day investigation period granted by the Shanzu court in December.
Airbnb Crackdown: Gov’t Orders Mandatory Registration
In a move to address the rise in femicide cases linked to short-term rental properties, the Kenyan government has mandated mandatory registration for all Airbnb and lodging operators with the Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA). The announcement, delivered in a joint statement by four Principal Secretaries, outlined a series of stringent measures aimed at enhancing guest safety and security.
“Effective immediately,” the statement declared, “operators of short-term rentals, including Airbnbs, must register with the TRA. This registration will ensure these accommodations meet the highest safety and security standards.”
The initiative goes beyond registration. Starting February 5th, National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs) will collaborate with the TRA to conduct thorough inspections of registered properties. Booking platforms will also be involved, delisting unregistered rentals and potentially imposing strict penalties, including fines and revocation, for non-compliance.
Resident associations are encouraged to play an active role, partnering with law enforcement for information sharing, joint inspections, and coordinated responses to safety violations.
LEAVE A COMMENT
You must be logged in to post a comment.