A burial ceremony in Gesure Village, Kisii County, descended into chaos when police were forced to rescue a widow, Ann Wanjiru, after mourners allegedly locked her and her relatives inside a house and threatened to lynch them for defying a Gusii burial custom.
The tension arose when Wanjiru reportedly refused to take part in a traditional ritual that involves throwing a handful of soil into her husband’s grave—a symbolic act of farewell in Gusii culture. Her decision angered mourners, some of whom accused her of disrespecting their traditions and planning to abandon her matrimonial home.
In a dramatic twist, members of the deceased’s extended family allegedly took and hid Wanjiru’s 13-year-old son, escalating the emotional distress.
Police officers responded swiftly to the volatile scene, rescuing Wanjiru and her relatives from possible harm. The matter is now under investigation, with authorities treating both the threats and the child’s disappearance seriously.
The incident has sparked renewed debate about the enforcement of cultural practices and the rights of widows. Human rights groups have condemned the threats and intimidation, calling for respectful mourning spaces and protection for grieving families.
“This disturbing event shows the urgent need to balance tradition with personal freedoms and ensure that widows are not re-victimized in times of loss,” a Kisii-based women’s rights advocate said.
PHOTO :Courtesy Standard Digital Media
