Hundreds of mourners from Nyabisiongororo village in Kisii County have been forced to flee to save their lives after a middle-aged man ordered all in attendance out of his compound over unknown reasons.
Trouble started when Pius Ondimu, who had lost his wife Mary Ondimu under unclear circumstances, accused the speaker who was addressing mourners, accusing her of having plotted the death of his wife.
He started chasing people from the compound, chanting anti-witchcraft slogans besides cursing those who had allegedly bewitched his wife to death.
“He has chased us out of his compound, labeling all of us as witches. It is really painful and he must have been disappointed following the death of his wife,” said Alice Okero, a mourner.
“Many people may think that he has run out of his mind but I think he may be having a point to prove. Maybe he has a point and people should have perhaps taken time and investigate his claims,” added Enock Bosire.
However, calm was restored by village elders who persuaded Mr Ondimu to table his grievances after the funeral service of the deceased.
“We really persuaded him and eventually agreed to our plea. If he has evidence of people who allegedly masterminded the mysterious death, he can use other avenues other than embarrassing guests who had come from different parts of the country,” said Francis Omandi.