A family in Njogu-ini village, Kagumo, Kirinyaga Central, was frustrated after a planned burial of their 21-year-old son, Peter Macharia, was abruptly cancelled.
Peter Macharia was set to be laid to rest on Thursday, July 17, 2025.
According to the family, the burial was cancelled after a government pathologist failed to show up at the Kerugoya County Referral Hospital Mortuary to conduct the mandatory postmortem examination.
Family spokesperson Hezekiah Kang’ethe stated that the sudden postponement had deepened the family’s sorrow and prolonged their emotional distress.
“We were fully prepared for Peter’s burial tomorrow. This cancellation has caused immense emotional and logistical distress,” Kang’ethe said.
Family Frustrated Over Burial Plans
Additionally, Peter’s mother, Margaret Wainoi, said women from local welfare groups had already prepared food in readiness for the planned burial ceremony.
“Mourners were expected from far and wide. Now we are left wondering whether we will have to keep the grave open for days,” she said.
In a Facebook post, Peter’s sister Flozy Mugo acknowledged the pain caused by the delay and called for justice.
“While this delay brings further heartache to an already painful journey, we choose to remain patient and grounded in truth. Peter deserves justice, and every step, no matter how long, must be taken with dignity and clarity,” she wrote.
At the same time, Mutira Ward MCA David Kinyua Wangui, a relative of the deceased, faulted the government for what he described as negligence.
“All arrangements had been finalized the grave was dug last night, and now it’s all in vain. This is a major blow to the family,” he said.
Also Read: UN Speaks After Death of At Least 10 Kenyans on Saba Saba Day
How Peter Macharia Died
The 21-year-old Peter Macharia was fatally shot during the Saba Saba protests.
He was first rushed to a nearby dispensary for emergency care, then referred to Kerugoya Level Five Hospital, where he succumbed to gunshot injuries.
Also Read: CJ Martha Koome Addresses Police Conduct After Saba Saba Protests
Deaths Reported During Saba Saba Demonstrations
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) released a report on the Saba Saba protests held on July 7, 2025.
According to the report, the Commission observes that the death toll has now risen to thirty-eight (38) people as of 1800hrs today.
At least one hundred and thirty (130) people are still nursing injuries at home and in various health facilities across the country.
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