Court orders DPP to reduce Makenzi's murder charges

Preacher Paul Makenzi. [Robert Menza, Standard]

The High Court in Malindi has ordered the Director of Public Prosecution to reduce murder charges against preacher Paul Makenzi and his co-accused from 191 to 12.

Justice Mugure Thande said the prosecution's decision to overload the charge sheet was not in the interest of the public or administration of justice. The judge said the 191 counts would put immense burden on the judge and jury, describing them as oppressive and a violation of the rights of the accused.