In a significant verdict, Kenyan photographer Jacktone Odhiambo has been sentenced to 50 years in prison for the murder of LGBTQ+ activist Edwin Kiprotich Kipruto, known as Edwin Chiloba. The heinous crime, committed nearly two years ago, shocked the nation and particularly affected the LGBTQ+ community in Kenya. Judge Reuben Nyakundi characterized the murder as happening in a “diabolical manner,” emphasizing the brutality of the act.
Chiloba, a 25-year-old fashion designer, was found smothered to death, with his body disposed of in a metal box along a roadside in Eldoret. The Judge noted that Odhiambo, also 25, displayed no remorse throughout the proceedings. However, during the reading of his sentence, Odhiambo created a commotion in court, collapsing and crying.
In his ruling, Justice Nyakundi highlighted Odhiambo's vengeful nature as a crucial factor in determining the length of the sentence. The relationship between the two men, who were housemates near the University of Eldoret, had drawn speculation regarding potential romantic links. The evidence presented by the prosecution included testimony from 23 witnesses and DNA evidence tying Odhiambo to the crime scene.
Chiloba's body was discovered with socks stuffed in his mouth and a piece of denim tied around his face, while a post-mortem examination concluded that he died from asphyxiation due to smothering. Disturbingly, further evidence suggested that Chiloba may have been sexually assaulted before his murder. While there were speculations regarding an intimate partner motive, the court did not confirm this aspect in its findings.
As reactions to the verdict unfold, advocates stress the importance of addressing violence against the LGBTQ+ community in Kenya, as societal tensions regarding LGBTQ+ rights remain prevalent in the region.
