Elders accused of wizardry flee

The Chief of Mrima wa Ndege location in Kilifi, Samson Karisa (L) with elders who received threatening letters accusing them of being wizards. PHOTO | KAZUNGU SAMUEL

What you need to know:

  • Mr Mangi Mitsanze, the caretaker of Kaya Godhoma, a Mijikenda shrine, said the elders sought refuge at the sacred grove
  • About a week ago, two elders from Ngerenya sought protection at Kilifi Police Station

Seven old men have fled to a Kilifi traditional shrine after they were threatened by people who accused them of witchcraft.

The elders fled after they received death threats in a region where old people have in the past been brutally killed on suspicion they are wizards.

The seven are from Mrima wa Ndege and said they feared for their lives after letters threatening them with death were circulated.

Mr Mangi Mitsanze, the caretaker of Kaya Godhoma, a Mijikenda shrine, said the elders sought refuge at the sacred grove.

“They are living at Kaya Godhoma because they fear that they will be killed the moment they return home,” he said.

The letters named the targets and indicated that “heroes” were ready to confront them with knives, machetes and axes.

“If you don’t abandon witchcraft, we will be on your doorsteps for some greetings very soon or just now,” said the letters.

A few days ago, two elderly people from Tezo sought refuge at the shrine after they were threatened by villagers who accused them of being wizards, according to Mr Mitsanze.

“The rate at which these killings are taking place is worrying,” said the Kaya elder. “Something must be done urgently or else, the current generation of elders will be wiped out.”

About a week ago, two elders from Ngerenya sought protection at Kilifi Police Station.

One was a herbalist whose patient, a young man from his village, died after an illness.

Kilifi police division commander Justine Nyaga said stern action would be taken against those who issue such threats.