In a rather peculiar event, residents of Shikoye village in Shirere sub-county of Kakamega county decided to vent their anger on a dead man’s body.
The body of the 36-year-old Nimrod Alusiola, which was found hanging from the roof of his house, was beaten by residents who stated that the act was a tradition within the community.
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In Kakamega County, Kenya, a deeply rooted cultural practice involves the mistreatment of individuals who die by suicide.
This tradition is particularly prevalent among the Luhya community, where it is believed that such actions could invite the “spirit of suicide” into the society.
Consequently, families often subject the deceased to ritualistic beatings and hurried burials without ceremonies or mourning.
The rationale behind this practice is to serve as a stern warning to others, emphasizing that taking one’s life is not permissible under any circumstances.
Elders assert that the harsh treatment meted out to the deceased is intended to deter others from contemplating suicide. In some instances, the body is reportedly whipped until it “cries for mercy,” underscoring the community’s strong disapproval of suicide.
While this practice may seem extreme, it reflects the community’s deep-seated beliefs about the sanctity of life and the perceived dangers of suicide.
However, it’s important to note that such customs are increasingly being questioned and challenged, especially as awareness about mental health grows.
Advocates for mental health awareness and suicide prevention are working to shift these traditional views towards more compassionate and supportive approaches.
