A 60-Year-Old Ugandan Man Arrested for Failing to Bring Dowry to In-Laws

A 60-year-old Ugandan man named Samuel Maikut found himself in police custody after a visit to his in-laws took an unexpected turn. Maikut had gone to seek the hand of his lover in marriage but failed to fulfill the traditional requirement of bringing a dowry.

The incident took place in Bukwo District, where Maikut, as the suitor, visited his potential in-laws’ residence without the expected dowry. This left the bride-to-be’s family shocked and angered by his lack of adherence to tradition.

In an unconventional move, Maikut informed the family that he intended to marry their daughter in a traditional manner and expected them to bear the expenses of organizing the introduction ceremony. The bride’s family, believing in Maikut’s commitment, invested a considerable amount of $1200 in preparations for the ceremony. They anticipated Maikut’s arrival with four cows and three goats, as had been previously agreed upon.

However, when the eagerly awaited day arrived, Maikut showed up empty-handed, violating the agreed-upon terms. To make matters worse, he arrived late, appearing 20 minutes behind the scheduled time of 5 pm. This combination of tardiness and failure to bring the promised dowry created a tense atmosphere.

Understandably upset, the bride’s family interrogated Maikut about his failure to honor the agreement. Unfortunately, he could not provide a satisfactory explanation, further fueling their disappointment. Fearing escalating tensions and a potential physical altercation, the local authorities were summoned, resulting in Maikut’s arrest by the police.

Following the arrest, the remorseful 60-year-old expressed his regrets for the unfortunate turn of events. He pledged to compensate the bride’s family for the financial losses incurred due to the failed ceremony. Maikut, however, shifted the blame onto his organizing team, citing challenges that he failed to elaborate on.

“I deeply apologize for what happened, but I am ready to discuss issues of compensation for the losses involved in the function,” Maikut said, expressing his remorse.