In a landmark verdict that underscores the alarming challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community in Kenya, Jacktone Odhiambo was sentenced to 50 years in prison for the murder of his housemate and renowned LGBTQ+ activist, Edwin Kiprotich Kipruto, known as Edwin Chiloba. The brutal killing, which occurred in January 2023, shocked advocates and activists nationwide.
Presiding over the case, Judge Reuben Nyakundi condemned the "diabolical manner" in which the murder was carried out, stating that the excessive sentence was a reflection of the heinous nature of the crime. During the trial, evidence revealed that the 25-year-old Chiloba was smothered to death, with his body found stuffed in a metal box discarded by the roadside in Eldoret.
In delivering the sentence, Judge Nyakundi noted that Odhiambo showed no remorse, remarking on his vengeful nature. After the sentence, Odhiambo reportedly collapsed in the courtroom, breakdowns that revealed the weight of the decision. The prosecution highlighted that after committing the crime, Odhiambo misappropriated Chiloba's funds.
The case was bolstered by testimonies from 23 witnesses and forensic evidence, including DNA analysis linking Odhiambo directly to the crime scene. Disturbing details from the post-mortem report indicated that Chiloba had died from asphyxiation due to smothering, with additional forensic evidence suggesting he may have been sexually assaulted, although the court did not determine a definitive motive behind the attack.
Chiloba’s murder not only raised concerns about the safety of LGBTQ+ individuals in Kenya but also ignited broader discussions around the country's stance on LGBTQ+ rights, particularly as discussions about potential anti-gay laws continue to gain traction in governmental circles. The enduring impact of Chiloba’s legacy emphasizes the critical need for greater legal protections and societal acceptance for LGBTQ+ individuals in the region.
