WE MUST HONOR THE DEAD
Human dignity does not end with death. In all cultures across the world the burial of the dead is a solemn event accompanied with elaborate rituals. We must respect the dead and that is why we have graves, tombs, crypts, mausoleums and pyramids. Veneration of the dead is based on love, respect and dignity for the deceased. Even the dead in major wars and civil strife have their remains interred in cemeteries.
James Oyugi’s burial in Simur Village, Ukwala location, Ugenya Constituency, Siaya County has created justifiably a national outrage. The crude and macabre burial in the dead of the night with little concern for the grieving family and the community has no place in a caring and decent society.
We want everybody to stay healthy and safe but not to the extend of flouting or ignoring protocols laid out by the government, respecting the dignity of the dead, their cultural and religious traditions and customs and the need to offer comfort and solace to grieving families.
If James Oyugi’s death was caused by COVID-19 then conduct of the burial caused more harm than good and may have endangered other lives. COVID-19 pandemic is better fought without stigma. The Corona virus has invaded the corridors of power and royalty. Even the height of aristocracy and the celebrity world have not been spared by this invisible enemy and contagion.
I will therefore seek a statement tomorrow in the Senate from the Cabinet Secretary requiring him to explain the cause of death and circumstances surrounding the burial of James Oyugi Onyango and the role of both the national and county governments in the awful, gruesome and despicable burial of James Oyugi Onyango in the dead of the night.
I am also instructing Nelson Havi & Company Advocates to take up the matter for any necessary legal action.
JAMES ORENGO
SENATOR, SIAYA COUNTY
Monday, 13th April 2020
