The ghosts of Shakahola have returned to haunt Kenya’s conscience after police arrested Pastor Abel Gandi of the New Foundation Church over the shocking death of a follower during a bizarre ritual.
According to police reports, the woman met her death after falling from what Gandi calls the “Tree of Life,” a towering baobab tree that the controversial preacher allegedly claims is the gateway to divine healing and personal deliverance. Congregants were instructed to climb the tree to “elevate spiritually” and “escape earthly suffering.”
Tragically, the woman’s final climb ended in disaster—her lifeless body found beneath the sacred tree that has now become a crime scene.
“This is not religion. This is manipulation and madness,” said Kilifi County Commissioner Josephat Biwott. “We believe the deceased was coerced through dangerous teachings masked as faith.”
The arrest has sparked public outrage and renewed scrutiny of radical religious movements in the country, especially in Shakahola, which is still reeling from last year’s horrific cult deaths under Pastor Paul Mackenzie.
Speaking during a media roundtable in Kitui County at the launch of Jukwaa La Usalama – Lower Eastern Region, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen minced no words.
“The government will not relent. Any so-called church promoting cult doctrines, endangering lives, or abusing religion will be shut down. We are not negotiating with cults,” Kindiki declared.
Kindiki’s remarks signal a tougher stance from the State amid growing concerns over rogue pastors exploiting desperate Kenyans through dangerous spiritual practices.
The New Foundation Church has since been cordoned off, and investigations are ongoing into whether more lives may have been endangered by the preacher’s strange doctrine.
As the nation watches in horror, the question remains—how many more must die before Kenya cleanses itself of deadly doctrines masquerading as divine calling?
