There was a standoff between two families in Sipande Village in Mautuma Ward, Lugari Constituency following a tragic incident in which a man died by suicide in a neighbour’s home after a breaking in.
The 34-year-old man, identified as Ezekiel Masinde Stoney, alias Masoni, took his own life on April 1 at the home of Enock Mwanje, his neighbour.
A meeting held at the residence of David Okello Masoni, the deceased’s father, brought together both families to deliberate on the way forward in accordance with Luhya customs.
Among the demands tabled by Mr. Mwanje were compensation in the form of a sheep and a cow, as well as the reconstruction of Enock Mwanje’s house, which was reportedly damaged during the incident. It was proposed that the house be rebuilt using 45 iron sheets, in addition to covering other related losses.
However, the talks ended without a resolution after the deceased’s family walked out before a consensus could be reached, further heightening tensions. They indicated that they would communicate their final position at a later date, while Mwanje’s family said they would await official feedback.
Meanwhile, the bereaved family is grappling with a second crisis. They are seeking to raise KSh 60,000 to cater for the medical expenses of a daughter-in-law who was allegedly assaulted by the deceased, leaving her with a broken arm. She is currently undergoing treatment at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret.
In a bid to meet the mounting medical costs, the family has reportedly resorted to selling trees.
