By Eumu Emmanuel
A heated family dispute has unfolded in Ogak parish, Kaberamaido District, as tensions flare over the alleged misappropriation of compensation funds. Ms. Selina Asomo finds herself behind bars at Kaberamaido Central Police Station, accused of withdrawing 9.9 million shillings intended as compensation for the late Mr. Albert Esingu, who passed away in 2015 at the age of 83.
According to Asomo, she embarked on the paperwork for compensation alongside her late father, but encountered resistance from her elder brother, a police officer, who dismissed their efforts. Undeterred, Asomo proceeded to obtain a letter of administration from the court. However, upon receiving the funds and attempting to deposit them, she discovered the bag was empty, prompting her to return home in fear and secrecy.
Her mother, Alamo Kevin, recounts a history of pursuit for compensation dating back to the 1980s when Karamojong raiders seized their cattle. Kevin laments that despite previous agreements among family members to share any compensation equally, Asomo’s actions have caused discord.
Susan Imede, one of Asomo’s sisters, expressed a willingness to forgive and reconcile if Asomo returns the funds. Julius Oyoma, another sibling, criticized Asomo’s abandonment of family unity, particularly in his time of illness.
The family’s plight serves as a cautionary tale about the complexities of managing shared assets and the importance of communication and unity in times of adversity. As Asomo awaits her fate, the rift within the family serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of familial bonds amidst financial strain.