Heated Debate Erupts After Rev. Matsiko Bars Sisters from Inheriting Father’s Property

Kabale: A heated debate has erupted at the burial service of 92-year-old Jackson Rwakinihira in Kiina Nyakatoma, Rugarama Parish, Maziba Sub County, Kabale District, after his son, Rev. Christopher Matsiko, announced that his three biological sisters would not be allowed to inherit part of their father’s property.

Rev. Matsiko, who serves as the parish priest of Ibumba Church of Uganda in Kihanga Archdeaconry, on September 8, argued that according to Bakiga culture, girls should not inherit their father’s property. He said girls are expected to marry and focus on their husband’s property, leaving their father’s property to their brothers who remain at the ancestral home.

CUE IN… REV. MATSIKO ON GIRLS AND INHERITANCE

His statement sparked outrage among mourners, who booed him and questioned his judgment, saying it was unfair to deny girls a share of their father’s estate as if they were less important children.

Not all family members agreed with Rev. Matsiko’s stance. His uncle, Minason Ninsiima, openly opposed the decision, stressing that girls also deserve a share since they too are children with needs just like the boys.

The Archdeacon of Nyabirerema Archdeaconry in the Diocese of Kigezi, Rev. Canon Manasseh  Turyatunga,  partly supported Matsiko’s view, saying families must respect both culture and government laws. However, he advised that girls should also receive some share to acknowledge their contribution to the family.

CUE IN… REV. TURYATUNGA ON THE MATTER

Representing government at the burial, Kabale District Woman MP Hon. Catherine Atwakiire Ndamira strongly opposed Rev. Matsiko’s statement. She emphasized that girls have equal rights to inheritance and called for more awareness and support for women’s rights in Uganda.

CUE IN… HON. ATWAKIIRE ON GIRLS’ RIGHTS

The late Jackson Rwakinihira is survived by seven children and his 96-year-old wife.