Relatives’ Demands for Burying Loved Ones Condemned as Illegal
KARIBA – Rex Shana, Deputy Chairperson of the Law Development Commission (LDC), has spoken out against the growing trend of relatives demanding cash, cattle and other valuables from sons-in-law in exchange for burying their deceased daughters.
Speaking at a public legal awareness campaign on the Marriages Act [Chapter 5:17] in Kariba yesterday, Shana emphasized that such practices are not only unethical but also illegal.
Shana clarified that while the Marriages Act protects the rights of spouses and family members, it does not justify unreasonable demands from relatives.
The Deceased Persons Family Maintenance Act [Chapter 6:03] and the Estate Duty Act outline clear guidelines on the management of deceased estates and the rights of beneficiaries, which do not permit or condone such demands.
Recent cases in Kariba have highlighted the need for greater awareness about the laws governing deceased estates and family maintenance.
In Kariba, a disturbing trend has emerged where families demand exorbitant prices in exchange for burying their loved ones.
For instance, one family insisted that their son-in-law sell a house and split the proceeds before allowing the burial of their daughter. Another family demanded $10,000 from their in-laws before proceeding with burial arrangements.
Shana’s remarks come as the LDC continues to conduct nationwide legal awareness meetings on the Marriages Act, aiming to educate communities about their rights and responsibilities under the law.
