MASAKA — A family transporting the body of a relative for burial in western Uganda was left distressed after their vehicle reportedly broke down several times under unclear circumstances, prompting mourners to cane the corpse in frustration.
The unusual incident occurred along the Kampala–Masaka highway as family members traveled from Nabbingo to Kisoro District to bury Moses Ahimbisibwe, 46.
According to relatives, the journey began smoothly at around 7 p.m., but shortly after departure, the vehicle—a Mitsubishi Fuso Rosa—started experiencing intermittent mechanical problems before eventually breaking down completely in Lukaya during the early hours of the morning.
When attempts to restart the vehicle failed, mourners removed the body from the vehicle and placed it by the roadside, attracting crowds of curious onlookers.
Ahimbisibwe, who worked as a boda boda rider, had reportedly been battling diabetes and high blood pressure before passing away at Kiruddu National Referral Hospital.
Family member Tibihika revealed that before his death, the deceased had allegedly made remarks suggesting he would “cause trouble” after passing on, statements that unsettled some mourners during the ordeal.
As tension and confusion grew at the scene, a section of mourners reportedly struck the corpse with sticks, describing the act as a cultural response to unusual events believed to be connected to the deceased.
The incident sparked mixed reactions among members of the public, with some expressing shock while others described it as part of long-held traditional beliefs practiced in certain communities.
Despite the delay, the family later managed to continue with the journey after arrangements were made to address the vehicle’s mechanical problems.
The bizarre incident has since generated widespread discussion on social media, with many questioning the role of cultural beliefs and superstitions in handling unusual occurrences during funeral processions.
