Written By Mary Mumbua 📝
The Kitale Court granted the request of a 52-year-old man seeking dowry refund from his in-laws.
Wilberforce Saenyi Murunga and his brother Fred Matumbayi went to Kiungani at the Chief’s office in Baraton on Saturday around 9.30 a.m. to pick up his three cows and a goat from his in-laws.
This came after the Kitale mediation court ordered Murunga to return three cows, a she-goat, and Sh20, 000.
Murunga initially paid Sh50, 000 for the bride price, which included three Ayrshire heifers, one cross Ayrshire bullock, one she-goat, one pair of gumboots, and a hat. That occurred on April 27, 2019, at his Bungoma residence.
However, according to the terms of the agreement, Murunga forfeited one cow and Sh30, 000 as a token of appreciation, as well as the remaining items.
“I am excited and happy that the court has done justice for me. Since the aggressor happens to be a lawyer I never thought I would win this case and I thank God,” Murunga said.
According to Murunga, his ex-wife threatened to drop the case, but his determination kept him going, “and I believe everyone is equal before the law regardless of your status.”
He claims that due to the poor state of the economy, his in-laws were unable to return all of the animals and money.
The animals would be transported to his village home in Chwele, Bungoma, for confirmation by the Balunda clan.
“Now we are officially not husband and wife anymore. She is free to move on and likewise since the dowry has been refunded back,” he explained.
He urged men who were suffering in silence to leave their comfort zone and put their faith in the justice system.
A Kitale court referred the case to mediation on April 14, 2022.
A court mediator will be appointed, according to Chief Magistrate Julius Ng’arng’ar.
He stated that if the matter is not resolved, it will be returned to court for a decision.
