By Samuel Flomo, Jr.
The Proprietor of St. Kennedy Funeral Home in Gbarnga, Bong County has cautioned residents, especially those in Gbarnga City to desist from the practice of keeping dead bodies at home before burial.
In an exclusive interview with journalists in Gbarnga, Kennedy Smith said, the act of storing corpses in homes for days is “completely unsafe, unsanitary, and disrespectful to the dead.”
“The practice poses serious health hazards, not only to family members, but to the entire community,” Smith warned.
He said, when a corpse is kept at home, it begins to decompose, releasing dangerous bacteria and odors that can spread infections.
“This is not just about culture or tradition, it’s a public health issue. People need to stop immediately before it leads to sickness in our neighborhoods.”
Mr. Smith said Gbarnga and other parts of the county have several funeral homes; equipped with the necessary facilities to preserve bodies with dignity and care.
He said the St. Kennedy Funeral Home, and other morticians are always ready to assist families, regardless of their financial situation.
Smith: “I know that some people may be concerned about the cost, but we are open to discussions. Funeral homes are not here to exploit families; we are here to help. Anyone who comes to us can negotiate reasonable fees, and we will work with the bereaved.”
He also said his funeral home, in consultation with legal authorities and health institutions, has considered measures against those, who persistently violate public health guidelines.
“We have engaged the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), office of the County Attorney Jonathan Flomo, and the local leadership,” said Smith.
According to him, if this behavior continues, legal actions will be taken against violators, “because it endangers everyone’s lives.”
Smith further appealed to zonal heads and community leaders to enforce compliance. He urged residents to make use of professional funeral homes.
“Funeral homes exist to provide dignity in death, and safety for the living.”
He added: “Let us all act responsibly for the good of our communities.”