Metropolitan Hospital Releases Body After Family Settles Sh 8M Bill with Land Title

The family of 82-year-old Titus Gatuthu Kabûrû Theuri, known as Mr G.K. Theuri, has been allowed to proceed with his burial.

This comes after months of negotiations over an outstanding hospital bill totalling approximately Sh 8 million owed to Metropolitan Hospital. The agreement reached includes the family offering a title deed as collateral to cover the remaining balance. The issue arose when Mr Theuri fell ill during a visit to Nairobi in late August 2024 and was subsequently admitted to Metropolitan Hospital on August 29.

He passed away on October 24, but his body was withheld pending payment of the outstanding bill. The family proposed to use a title deed valued at over Sh 5 million as security, yet the process was fraught with delays arising from extended discussions and property inspections. A crucial development occurred on December 7, 2024, when an inspection of the property was scheduled.

However, representative Elizabeth Kimanga from Metropolitan Hospital initially declined to attend the inspection due to transportation difficulties, resulting in further postponements. The inspection ultimately occurred on December 9; however, complications arose when the burial permit was dated December 6, preceding the completion of the property inspection. Amid growing pressure, the hospital consented to release the body in early January 2025, contingent upon a formal agreement regarding the settlement of the bill.

The family expresses relief at finally being able to move forward, though they voice frustration over the undue delays and emotional stress endured throughout the process. Kaz, Mr Theuri's son, articulated the family's distress, stating, "It felt like my dad’s body was being held ransom. The agony of waiting while navigating ever-changing demands was unbearable." The funeral service is scheduled for Friday, January 17, 2025, with the cortege departing from Kenyatta University Referral Hospital Funeral Home at 7 a.m.

A service will take place at Karinga’inî PCEA Church, followed by burial at Kaheti Village, Kangoru, Mûkûrwe’inî, Nyeri.