Rita Waeni’s burial mirrored a cult, no viewing of the body and police blocked villagers from attending.
The slain Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) was laid to rest at her parents’ home in Mukimwani Village, Kisau location, Makueni County on February 5, 2024.
The funeral was only attended by close relatives and villagers were restricted from even accessing the compound.
The strict rules set by the family were evident from the gate as armed police officers kept off any person trying to getting in.
Pastor Fred Auma of Ridgeways Baptist Church in Nairobi led the funeral service which began very early in the morning at 8 am and only lasted for two hours.
Lillian Mutea, an aunt of Waeni’s and spokesperson for the family, asked the villagers to understand the family’s decision to bury their kin in secret.
“We are at peace because we know that our larger family, friends, colleagues and many Kenyans who have shared this loss will understand this decision,” she said.
Rita’s parents Stephen Muendo and Dorcas Mwende expressed their grief in a statement and cherished the memory of their slain daughter.
“Our daughter, Waeni, was an intelligent girl beyond her age. She was a spirited and caring individual known for her unwavering kindness, infectious laughter and the ability to light up any room she entered. We are saddened by the nature of her death but choose to forever cherish the countless memories of Waeni’s joyous presence and her dedication to making a positive impact on those around her. We thank God for the life we were able to have together,” the parents said in a statement.
This tragic event is the second death in the family this January, following the death of the family patriarch, Mzee William Mutea.
“Waeni was the highlight during the burial of her grandfather in early January. She is the one who read the eulogy,” a neighbour said.
Related: 2 Nigerians Who Dismembered Rita Waeni’s Body Arrested Close To Where Her Head Was Found
