A heated debate erupted during the burial service of 92-year-old Jackson Rwakinihira in Kiina Nyakatoma, Rugarama Parish, Maziba Sub County, Kabale District, after Rev. Christopher Matsiko, the deceased’s son, announced that his three biological sisters would not inherit any part of their father’s property.
Rev. Matsiko, who is also the parish priest of Ibumba Church of Uganda in Kihanga Archdeaconry, said that his siblings should only share on the properties from matrimonial marriages. Rev Matsiko further added that he has discussed the matter with his late father and he consented.
However, his statements sparked outrage among mourners who criticized and booed him, with many accusing him off greed and selfishness to exclude the sisters from sharing their father’s property.
CUE IN REV. MATSIKO……ON INHERITANCE… RR//
Not all family members agreed with the stance. Minason Ninsiima, Rev. Matsiko’s uncle, criticized the decision, saying it undermines the rights of girl children. He said that as a family they will not tolerate Rev Matsiko’s behaviors and they will ensure that justice is served.
“Girls equally deserve a share because they are also children and have needs just like the boy child,” Ninsiima said.
Rev. Canon Turyatunga Manasseh, Archdeacon of Nyabirerema Archdeaconry in the Diocese of Kigezi, also opposed Rev. Matsiko’s statement, noting that families should respect both cultural practices and government laws. However, he emphasized that girls should still receive a share to recognize their contributions to the family.
CUE IN REV.CAN TURYATUNGA……ON THE CALL…..RR//
Kabale District Woman Member of Parliament, Hon. Catherine Atwakiire Ndamira, spoke strongly against Rev. Matsiko’s directive. She underscored that girl children have equal inheritance rights and stressed the need for greater awareness and enforcement of women’s rights in Uganda.
CUE IN HON. ATWAKIIRE…..ON THE ISSUE…….RR//
The late Jackson Rwakinihira is survived by seven children and his 96-year-old wife.
