Pastor Ezekiel Odero publicly credited journalists with shaping how Kenyans understood the Shakahola tragedy and its broader impact.
Speaking at Kilifi International School on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, the New Life Prayer Centre founder addressed members of the media, acknowledging their role in informing the country and shaping national conversations during moments of crisis.
He described journalists as an often-overlooked group whose work quietly but consistently delivers information into people’s homes, saying their contribution to society is rarely recognized despite its far-reaching impact.
“It is difficult for someone to recognize journalists as an important person,” Ezekiel told the gathering, before stressing that most information Kenyans consume daily comes from the media.
Ezekiel said his decision to invite journalists was driven by appreciation, especially following intense scrutiny of his ministry after the Shakahola Forest massacre, which sparked nationwide outrage and fear around religious extremism.
“I have called you here to say thank you for the work that you are doing, for this nation,” he said, adding that journalists sought to tell the truth rather than defend personalities.
Pastor Ezekiel Odero was investigated for his alleged connection to the Shakahola massacre and cult leader Paul Mackenzie.
Despite these allegations, a Mombasa court formally cleared him of all links to the massacre in October 2023 due to a lack of evidence.
He noted that during the period he describes as persecution, media houses attempted to present facts fairly, without pushing narratives aimed at declaring him innocent or guilty.
The remarks come against the backdrop of the Shakahola starvation cult tragedy in Kilifi County, where followers of preacher Paul Nthenge Mackenzie died after being convinced to fast to meet Jesus.
Authorities have since confirmed that at least 457 bodies were recovered by August 2025, with victims dying from starvation, dehydration, and other forms of violence.
The scale of the deaths triggered widespread investigations, international attention, arrests, and fresh debate about the regulation of religious groups in Kenya.
