This archive report was first published on 2 August 2019.
On August 2, 2019, a Nairobi court made a crucial decision that would determine the final resting place of the late Kibra MP, Ken Okoth. The court adopted a consent signed by Monica Okoth, Ken's wife, and Anne Thumbi, his lover, which would unlock the stalemate over the interment of the legislator.
According to the consent, a DNA test would be undertaken to confirm the paternity of Anne Thumbi's son. This move was seen as a compromise between the two women, who had been at odds over the burial arrangements.
Ken Okoth's wish, as stated by his wife, was that his body be cremated. However, the Luo Council of Elders were opposed to this idea, citing Luo customs that require the body to be buried near the father's grave.
Monica Okoth and Ken's younger brother were pushing for the cremation of the fallen MP's body, while his mother, Anjeline Ajwang', and his elder brother wanted the body buried at her home in Kasewe, Kabondo Kasipul.
Orange Democratic Movement leader Raila Odinga and the Luo Council of Elders, through Nyandiko Ongadi, insisted that the burial arrangements must conform to Luo culture. They argued that Ken's wife, who is of European descent, should follow Luo practices.
On Saturday, August 3, 2019, Ken Okoth will be cremated, as per the consent agreed upon by his wife and lover. The cremation will take place in a private event in Nairobi.
