“I direct that the respondents be held in custody for seven days. Should investigative officers require more time, they are at liberty to make that application before returning to court on April 1, 2025,” ruled Magistrate Achieng’.
Mogaka detailed her horrific experience, pleading for justice.
“There was a heavily built man who attacked me from the tea plantation and dragged me to the gravesite, where he continued beating me. If that man is arrested, that’s when I will feel I have received justice. There are still eight suspects who haven’t been apprehended,” she said.
Nyamira Widow Assaulted Over Burial Rites: PS Demands Arrests
Government Condemns the Heinous Act
The assault has drawn sharp criticism from government officials and human rights activists. Principal Secretary for Gender Anne Wangombe condemned the attack, terming it a gross violation of human rights.
“I strongly condemn the cruel and dehumanising assault on Mellene Mogaka during her husband’s burial in Kisii. This barbaric act is a gross violation of human rights, widow rights, and constitutional freedoms. It is unacceptable that communities continue to use retrogressive cultural practices to justify violence,” Wangombe stated.
“No one should ever be subjected to such humiliation, harassment, or violence, regardless of any personal or family disputes. The government remains committed to ending harmful cultural practices and will continue working with stakeholders to strengthen laws, raise awareness, and protect the dignity of every Kenyan,” she added.
