This archive report was first published on 12 November 2019.
On a fateful Monday morning in Kitale's Matisi slum, residents woke up to the devastating news of Phyllis Kemunto, an eight-month pregnant woman, who had taken her own life in a tragic turn of events.
According to reports, Kemunto, 30, hanged herself using a rope at their rented room in the slums after discovering a love message on her husband's mobile phone.
The couple, Lucas Andati and Phyllis Kemunto, had been quarreling over allegations of infidelity, with neighbours claiming that Kemunto had complained about her husband's alleged cheating with other women.
Area Chief Janet Nafula revealed that neighbours became suspicious when Kemunto locked out her child and declined to open the door, prompting them to help her husband break in, only to find her lifeless body.
"The couple had a bitter quarrel and even fought over infidelity before the woman decided to take her own life," said a neighbour who wished to remain anonymous.
County Commander Ayub Ali confirmed the incident, stating that the body was moved to Kitale District Hospital mortuary.
As the community mourns the loss of Kemunto, who was expecting to give birth next month, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic disputes.
