Burial ceremonies in Kenya have gradually changed over the years. Unlike in the past, when mourners were freely allowed to make speeches, many funeral programmes today are tightly controlled. In most cases, leaders presiding over such events limit speaking slots, sometimes even denying politicians a chance to address mourners.
This trend, however, sparked tension at the burial of Kapseret Member of Parliament Oscar Kipchumba Sudi’s aunt. During the ceremony, a pastor leading the service announced that political leaders would not be allowed to give speeches, a move that did not sit well with Sudi.
When Sudi rose to speak, he appealed to the church leadership to allow them time to mourn and share a few words in memory of his late aunt. He expressed frustration at the pastor’s decision and openly told him that if he did not have the time to continue with the programme, he was free to leave and allow other pastors present to take over so that the family could grieve in peace.
His remarks stirred mixed reactions, with some mourners supporting his plea while others viewed it as a show of disrespect toward the clergy. The incident highlights the growing friction between political leaders and church leaders during funerals, where both sides often differ on how much space should be given to politicians.
For Sudi, the burial of his aunt was a moment he felt leaders should be granted an opportunity to speak and console the family. For the clergy, however, the focus was on keeping the programme strictly spiritual and time-bound.
