A shocking family dispute in Migori County has left residents of Nyakondo Village in Nyatike Sub County in disbelief after a 19-year-old man allegedly attempted to take his own life by setting his house on fire following disagreements over his desire to marry a second wife.
According to local authorities, the young man identified as Juma Kibathare reportedly became emotionally distressed after his family strongly opposed his plans to bring home another wife despite being in a relatively new marriage.
Witnesses say the incident occurred on Monday evening when Kibathare allegedly set his house ablaze in what authorities believe was a suicide attempt fueled by frustration and emotional turmoil.
Fortunately, the young man managed to escape the raging flames before neighbors and local residents rushed to the scene to help. However, the fire completely destroyed the house, leaving nothing salvageable.
Family Rejected Proposal for Second Marriage
South East Muhuru Location Chief Mr. Jim Kawa confirmed the incident and stated that the family had rejected Kibathare’s request to marry a second wife due to several concerns.
According to the administrator, family members felt the young man was too young to take on another marriage responsibility. They also cited his unstable financial condition and the fact that he had only been married for two years to his first wife.
The couple reportedly already have one child together.
“The family objected to his plans because of his young age, financial instability, and the fact that he has only been in his first marriage for a short time,” Chief Kawa explained.
The chief further revealed that the woman Kibathare intended to marry as a second wife fled the area after learning about the incident.
Man Spent Night Outside With Family
Reports indicate that after the dramatic incident, Kibathare later returned home where he spent the night outside under a tree together with his first wife and their child after the family lost their house in the fire.
The incident has sparked conversations among residents about mental health, family pressure, early marriages, and the emotional challenges facing many young people in rural communities.
Community leaders are now urging young people to seek counseling and peaceful dialogue during family disputes instead of resorting to dangerous actions that could lead to loss of life.
Growing Concern Over Mental Health Cases
The Migori incident adds to the growing number of emotionally driven domestic and family-related cases being reported across Kenya. Mental health advocates continue to call for increased awareness and support systems, especially among young adults dealing with relationship and financial pressures.
Authorities have not confirmed whether the young man will face any legal action as investigations into the incident continue.
