Residents of Mokongonyoni village in Nyakoe ward, Kisii County, declined to participate in the funeral arrangements for the late Linet Kerubo, whose body had been in the morgue for three weeks.
The 33-year-old woman lived with her mother, Elmelda Otora, who was actively involved in village matters, particularly those related to death.
According to Abagusii traditions, if an individual, regardless of age, resides with their parent(s) who are engaged in village affairs, that person is considered an active participant.
However, Mokongonyoni residents held a different perspective, arguing that the deceased should have actively contributed to village affairs as she was above 18 years old.
The intervention of Nyamataro PAG church, where the deceased’s mother is a member, became crucial in settling mortuary fees and facilitating the burial process. Despite the residents initially showing interest in taking over the burial arrangements, the church insisted on overseeing the proceedings. This turn of events raised eyebrows, with observers noting the community’s abandonment of the grieving family, highlighting the unusual circumstances surrounding the burial.
