Family explains why Rosemary Koech Kimwatu was buried at night

The family of Rosemary Koech Kimwatu, a data protection pioneer, has revealed that her burial took place at night to adhere to Kalenjin cultural traditions. A Kipkendek clan elder, who is a cousin to Rosemary's father, explained that the family was deeply saddened by her passing and the circumstances surrounding it were shocking.

The elder, Keter, stated that the decision on how and when Rosemary would be buried was guided by cultural requirements. He dismissed speculation surrounding the family's burial arrangements, saying that relatives had held extensive discussions and reached a consensus. According to their cultural beliefs, a person who dies under specific circumstances should not remain unburied for several days.

The elder clarified that the family was required to undertake specific traditional practices to prevent the recurrence of similar tragedies. These practices, unique to the Kipkendek clan, were intended to follow clan customs. The elder emphasized that there was no dispute within the family over Rosemary's burial place, stating that relatives had consulted before agreeing on the arrangements.

The burial arrangements were made at a farm owned by Rosemary's father, Paul Chemuu, and the family's explanation of the rituals conducted after her death provides the clearest understanding of the circumstances surrounding her night burial.