Kenyan singer and entrepreneur Esther Akoth, widely known as Akothee, has recently shared a deeply emotional message addressing the tragic death of her brother-in-law, who is believed to have taken his own life. Her poignant letter, posted on Instagram, reveals not only her profound grief but also her complex feelings of anger and confusion surrounding his decision.
In her message, Akothee expresses sorrow for her brother-in-law’s death, but she also voices her disappointment and frustration over his choice to end his life. She notes that his decision has left his family, particularly his children, devastated. “Dear Brother-in-Law, I don’t have the strength to judge you for the decision you made to end this journey,” Akothee writes. “I might want to ask why you didn’t reach out to me or even to your nieces and nephews, but maybe you thought everyone was caught up in their own problems.”
The letter, accompanied by cherished photographs of her brother-in-law, is both a tribute and a cry of anguish. Akothee questions why her brother-in-law chose to leave behind his wife, children, and other loved ones. She reflects on the impact his death has had on his family, especially his mother, who had recently lost her husband. “But now, allow me to ask—what about your wife and your children? Omuga and the others? Daudi, did you not think about your mother, who has been a widow for just a year? Why were you so selfish, Odebi? You’ve broken my children’s hearts,” she laments.
In a revealing moment, Akothee shares that she, too, has faced moments of despair and contemplated suicide. She candidly admits that her children were the reason she chose to fight through her own struggles. Her revelation underscores the depth of her pain and her struggle to understand her brother-in-law’s actions. “You were brave to do this to us, an SDA man. You know you were the apple of your mother’s eyes. I’m deeply worried for our sick mother-in-law,” she confesses.
Akothee’s message reflects a raw and honest perspective on mental health and the impacts of suicide. Her letter not only mourns the loss of a family member but also challenges the perception of suicide as a solution to one’s problems. By sharing her personal experiences, Akothee aims to highlight the importance of seeking help and communicating one’s struggles rather than resorting to drastic measures.
The emotional weight of Akothee’s letter brings to light the often-hidden realities of mental health issues. Her critique of her brother-in-law’s decision also serves as a reminder of the far-reaching effects of suicide on families and communities. While Akothee acknowledges the difficulty of understanding his choice, she also emphasizes the need for support and empathy for those struggling with similar thoughts.
The loss has undeniably left a significant void in her family, and Akothee’s reflections serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of addressing mental health challenges openly and compassionately. Her message encourages others to seek support and maintain hope, even in the darkest of times.
Akothee’s heartfelt letter not only pays tribute to her brother-in-law but also fosters a broader conversation about mental health and the devastating consequences of suicide. Her willingness to share her personal struggle in the face of grief highlights the need for continued dialogue and support for those in need, urging a collective effort to prevent such tragedies in the future.
