The family of Leonard Mutua Muema, a 24-year-old man from Masewani Village in Kangundo Sub-county, Machakos County, is grappling with deep trauma following a chaotic and emotionally devastating burial marred by disorder and cultural insensitivity.

Muema, popularly known as Mapetco, tragically lost his life in a fatal head-on collision involving two motorcycles near Kathithyamaa Bridge on the Tala-Kangundo road. Both riders died on the spot. However, it was not the tragic accident alone that shattered the family—it was the unsettling events that unfolded during his burial.

What was intended to be a solemn farewell turned into a public spectacle. The drama began 50 kilometers away from Masewani, as the funeral procession left Machakos funeral home. A large convoy of boda boda riders and youth accompanied the body in a disorderly procession, blocking roads and drawing attention along the way, including a controversial stop at the accident scene.

At the burial site, things spiraled further out of control. Over 3,000 youths reportedly took over the funeral proceedings, sidelining the family and the clergy. The crowd opened the casket, conducted unorthodox rituals, and shockingly placed beer, bhang, and cigarettes inside before the burial. Loud music played, and the official ceremony was completely disrupted, leaving the bereaved family sidelined and heartbroken.

Mathew Munyaka, the family secretary, condemned the incident, describing the behavior as highly disrespectful and traumatizing. “Families deserve dignity and respect during burial. What we witnessed was unacceptable,” he said.

Local authorities, including Maiuni Sublocation Senior Assistant Chief Consolata Ndunge David, confirmed the events and pledged that such behavior would not be tolerated in future. “We must restore order and respect in our cultural and religious practices,” she asserted.

Matungulu MP Stephen Mule also denounced the conduct, calling it “neither African nor Christian,” and urged for moral responsibility and cultural integrity to be upheld during public funerals.

The deceased’s father, Eric Muema, recounted how the family was pushed aside as the group defied traditions, carried the casket without protocol, and barred the minister from conducting final rites. “We were helpless. In my entire life, I’ve never witnessed such dishonor,” he lamented, urging government action to prevent a repeat.

Pastor Stephen Lai Kilisa, who accompanied the family, echoed these sentiments, calling the burial “chaotic and traumatizing.” Meanwhile, Zenna Kambua, the deceased’s sister, shared how the family had to retreat to their home, never getting to witness or participate in the burial of their loved one.

As the community reflects on this disturbing event, leaders and families alike are calling for more safeguards around burial rites to ensure respect, dignity, and order in times of mourning.