Pastor Ezekiel Odero of New Life Prayer Centre and Church who has been linked to the Shakahola massacre is not yet off the hook.
The Office of the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) now says the case against the televangelist has not been terminated as reported in a section of the media.
In a statement, the DPP said only the custodial file was thrown out by the Shanzu Magistrates Court on Thursday adding that a review of Odero’s inquiry files is ongoing.
“Our attention has been drawn to information circulating in the media relating to the alleged closure of Mr. Ezekiel Odero’s case. Contrary to the said reports, we would like to clarify that a review of the inquiry files in respect of Mr. Odero is ongoing and no case against him has been terminated as alleged” the ODPP said in a statement.
The ODPP says that it had initially sought an extension of custodial orders for a further 30 days to enable the police complete investigations but the court denied the application and further granted him bond with conditions not to interfere with witnesses and report to the investigators on a weekly basis.
“At the expiry of the seven days, the DPP sought an extension of custodial orders for a further 30 days to enable the police complete investigations. The court however admitted Odero to a bond of Ksh. 0.5 million million with conditions that he does not interfere with witnesses and report to the investigators on a weekly basis,” said the ODPP.
“Upon receipt of the inquiry files, the ODPP was satisfied that the court orders facilitating investigations had already served their purpose and it was needless for Odero to keep attending court or the police station.”
ODPP further stated it will take action once the investigation is complete.
“Consequently, when the matter came up for mention today, 31. October 2023, the court closed the custodial file. The ODPP shall make a decision as regards to the results of the investigation as soon as the review thereof is complete” it explained.
The office further assured it will continue exercising its mandate in accordance with the constitution and the law.
“To this end, the office shall only make the decision to charge where the evidential and public interest thresholds have been met” it said.
The pastor has been accused, jointly and by conspiracy, of committing the felony of murder, aiding suicide, abduction, radicalization, genocide, crimes against humanity, child cruelty, fraud and money laundering, by the state.
