Wilberforce Murunga left Kenyans and outsiders talking after a court agreed to have him get a refund of his bride price.
Me. Murunga had moved to courts to seek a refund of his dowry. Because his wife, Irene Khaosa, had deserted their matrimonial home. Their marriage was dissolved on October 12, 2021.
Mr Murunga, who married Ms Khasoa in 2017 and paid her dowry as per the Bukusu customary law, had said that he wanted the bride price back after the marriage hit the rocks less than two years into it.
“I paid Sh50,000, three Ayrshire heifers, one cross Ayrshire bullock, one she-goat, a pair of gumboots and a hat as bride price. I have a copy of the dowry negotiation agreement which was counter-signed by representatives of both families,” he said.
He said he had travelled to the US for studies but cut short his education to return home.
“My wife was the reason I came back after two years in the United States. I used to send her money, but when she told me to return home and sire children with her, I just had to come home,” he said.
The refund
On Saturday, May 14, the Kitale mediation court ordered Murunga to be refunded three cows, a she-goat and KSh 20, 000. Murunga and his brother Fred Matumbayi would then proceed to Kiungani at the Chief’s office in Baraton to pick the animals and cash from in-laws.
Speaking after being refunded, Murunga said he was happy that justice had finally been served. “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. 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 said.
Mr. Wilberforce Murunga argued that he was representing men who suffer in silence. And called upon them to come out of their comfort zones and trust in court for justice.