Did Mujoroto deserve to be forcibly circumcised?

Jul 03, 2008

STEPHEN Mujoroto, an elderly man from Mbale was recently "arrested" in Kampala by his tribesmen and forcibly circumcised. His captors, who included his son, accused him of having dodged circumcision, a rite of passage to manhood for the Bagisu of eastern Uganda

STEPHEN Mujoroto, an elderly man from Mbale was recently "arrested" in Kampala by his tribesmen and forcibly circumcised. His captors, who included his son, accused him of having dodged circumcision, a rite of passage to manhood for the Bagisu of eastern Uganda. Here are views from www.newvision.co.ug on the act

It is criminal
No culture is above the laws of Uganda, ref; Constitution. If Mujoroto chose to, he could have these people (read errant crusaders) prosecuted for causing actual or grievous bodily harm, depending on the damage done to him.

He could also bring a civil suit to recover damages under the law of torts. There is no difference between forced circumcision and female genital mutilation.

They are all a violation of an individual’s body. How would these self-appointed people feel if six of their front teeth from the lower jaws were knocked out? Or even if it were done under anaesthesia?

They should stop being superstitious and sort out their domestic problems through scientifically proven means and prayer. It is hog-wash to claim that their mzee is the cause of family problems.

They should also seek counselling if they have genuine problems. Circumcision is not bad, but it should be with one’s consent.
Ocorobiya lloyd,/b>

It is Awkward
Our friends from Mbale need to know that as time goes on, cultures grow and integrate. Also, they need to be sensitised on the Constitution so that they guard against human rights violation.

Cultures that are static, rigid and not willing to incorporate other cultures are a great threat and hindrance to community development.

Our brothers need to re-address the circumcision issue and find better ways of influencing their culture not only to their fellow natives, but also to other people.

Circumcision is healthy, but its administration among the Gisu brothers is brutal and pristine, given the Mujoroto incidence that was so embarrassing.

If acts like this are not stopped, you will have more people involved in acts against humanity that could lead to people losing their lives.
Decimon Wandera

It is inhuman
Forced circumcision and female genital mutilation are practices that should be outlawed. Not only do these practices inflict pain on the victims, they also strip bare a man/woman of their dignity.

People are being violated in the name of culture. Mujoroto’s case is disgusting. Those youth are no different from outlaws who kidnap and violate people. It is a shame.
Anthony Okello,/b>

He Deserved it
As a pure Mugisu, I support the act. How can Mujoroto have children without facing the knife? I wonder what kind of man he is? Only cowards allow such embarrassments to befall their families.

He brought curses to his family and because of this, he deserved what he got. About integration of cultures; why would we all want to be the same? Our diversity is our strongest point. Anyone who feels the acts is criminal just fears circumcision
Wakikona

Oyeee
That old man had his goose cooked! It is great that circumcision finally caught up with him. I think you are not taking the objective view! Culture demands the rite of passage, call it savage and barbaric, but it is rational.

Bagisu are not the only ones who practice the rite of passage. We need to respect their culture.

Mujoroto's case is isolated and we should note it was his son administering justice.

Just like touching your in-law is regarded taboo, having a dad who is not circumcised in Gisu culture is taboo. As a Mugisu, I believe they needed to sort out this gentleman.

Please note they did not circumcise him on spot as is required; they settled it fairly. For those who feel it is old-fashioned, I hope you can bite the dust. Tradition is tradition and though it integrates and evolves, some key values will always remain.
Mungoma Isaac

More views on the discussion board on www.newvision.co.ug

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