LISTEN TO THIS THE AFRICANA VOICE ARTICLE NOW
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Government Pathologist Johansen Oduor has requested an additional Sh100 million to support pathology and forensic services in the ongoing investigation into the Shakahola Cult deaths. Oduor made this request while appearing before the National Assembly Committee on Health, accompanied by Principal Secretary for Medical Services Harry Kimutai.
Oduor detailed that the funds would cover domestic travel, subsistence, specialized materials and supplies, fuel, oil, lubricants, and other operational costs. He noted that since the investigation began in April 2023, only Sh30 million had been allocated for allowances and operational expenses.
“We are not requesting funds solely for allowances. We need to purchase supplies such as formalin and body bags, which are essential for the exhumation process,” Oduor explained.
PS Kimutai had previously appealed to the National Treasury for the additional funding in the Supplementary Budget Two, but the request was not granted despite two appeals dated February 15 and August 15, 2024.
Members of Parliament questioned the timeline for the exhumation exercise to ensure that the requested funds would be utilized effectively. Oduor responded, “We cannot predict the duration of the exercise because just last week, the Director of Criminal Investigation identified a mass grave with an estimated 50 bodies.”
To date, 429 bodies have been exhumed, with ongoing DNA identification processes. The Government Chemist has positively identified 34 bodies through DNA, which were released to families last week. Oduor mentioned that initial stages of DNA identification faced budget constraints and facility limitations, but these issues have since been resolved.
The victims were followers of cult leader Paul Mackenzie. Mackenzie and 95 co-accused individuals are facing multiple charges in courts in Mombasa and Malindi related to the deaths of the 429 cult members.
LEAVE A COMMENT
You must be logged in to post a comment.