KEWOPA condemns killing of Ugandan athlete Cheptegei, calls for investigation

Rebecca Cheptegei. [File, Standard]

The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) has condemned the killing of Ugandan athlete Rebecca Cheptegei and called for a thorough investigation into the incident. 

Cheptegei died on Thursday, September 5 after being set on fire by her boyfriend at her home in Trans Nzoia. 

KEWOPA chairperson Leah Sankaire denounced the gender-based violence meted out on the marathoner, urging authorities to take swift legal action against those responsible.

“We call on law enforcement to thoroughly investigate this crime, ensure justice is served, and take meaningful steps to protect women from violence in their homes, communities, or workplaces,” said Sankaire. 

The association also called on the government to implement stronger measures to ensure the safety and security of women.

“No woman should lose her life because of her gender or personal relationships. We urge the government to intensify efforts to combat domestic violence through stronger legislation, enhanced protection mechanisms, and widespread community awareness campaigns,” she added.

Cheptegei, an Olympic athlete, died while receiving treatment at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret for severe burns covering 80 percent of her body.

Her partner allegedly doused her in petrol.

Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen condoled with the family and condemned the attack, calling for increased efforts to tackle gender-based violence.

“Her passing is not only a loss for Uganda and the athletics community but for the entire region. This tragedy is a stark reminder that we must do more to combat gender-based violence, which has increasingly affected elite athletes. As a government, we are committed to seeking justice for Rebecca,” Murkomen stated.

Ugandan First Lady Janet Museveni also mourned the loss, stating: “The news of our daughter Rebecca Cheptegei tragic death due to domestic violence is deeply disturbing.”

Cheptegei, 33, had competed in the 2024 Paris Olympics just weeks before her death. 

This incident adds to a troubling pattern of violence against female athletes in Kenya and East Africa, following the murder of Kenyan athlete Agnes Tirop by her partner in October 2021.