Paternity Dispute Triggers Burial Drama as Lwengo Mother Carries Dead Child Away

A sombre mood turned into utter confusion in Kitwekyanjovu Village, Kayazanga Sub-county, Lwengo District, after a paternity dispute sparked a dramatic burial standoff. The crisis unfolded following the death of a two-year-old boy, whose mother, identified as Mackline, found herself locked in a fierce row with her husband Joseph Ssewankambo’s relatives.

According to local residents, the toddler fell ill and tragically passed away after being given local medication instead of being taken to a health facility. Tensions quickly escalated when family members raised questions regarding the child’s paternity. In a desperate move, Mackline picked up the dead child’s body and left the matrimonial home, attempting to take him to another family she believed was responsible. After being turned away there, she returned to plead for her son to be buried on her husband’s land.

The situation grew more volatile as accusations flew back and forth. Neighbours claimed Mackline blamed her mother-in-law, Regina Naluyima, for the child’s death by allegedly administering an overdose of medicine. Naluyima vehemently denied the accusations, stating she only arrived after the child had already passed away and was immediately met with verbal abuse.

Village chairperson Achleo Ntambazi condemned the incident, expressing concern over how unresolved domestic issues and paternity doubts could severely tear families apart during moments of profound grief. Local leaders urged couples to seek proper mediation and counselling to resolve marital tensions before they spiral out of control.

After hours of distress and eventual pleas for forgiveness, the grandfather permitted the burial to proceed. However, due to the lingering doubts and bitter exchanges, the family instructed that the grave be dug strictly at the boundary of their Kibanja rather than within the main family burial grounds, where residents ultimately assisted in laying the toddler to rest. Read more about this incident on Nile Post.