Kenyan photographer Jacktone Odhiambo has been sentenced to 50 years in prison for the murder of LGBTQ+ activist Edwin Kiprotich Kipruto, widely known as Edwin Chiloba, almost two years ago.
Judge Reuben Nyakundi handed down the sentence, describing the killing as “diabolical” and emphasizing its calculated nature.
Chiloba, a 25-year-old fashion designer, was smothered to death, and his body was discovered in a metal box abandoned by the roadside in Eldoret.
The case shocked Kenya’s LGBTQ+ community. The court found Odhiambo, also 25, to be unrepentant.
“I have considered all factors and found that Odhiambo was a vengeful person who committed the killing of his close friend,” Judge Nyakundi stated.
However, Odhiambo caused a commotion in the courtroom after the sentence was announced, falling to the ground and crying.
Chiloba and Odhiambo were housemates near the University of Eldoret, where Chiloba was studying. Reports suggested they may have been in a relationship.
Prosecutor Mark Mugun told the court that Odhiambo used Chiloba’s money lavishly after the murder.
Evidence from 23 witnesses, including DNA tests linking Odhiambo to the crime, was presented during the trial.
Chiloba’s body was found with socks stuffed into his mouth and his face wrapped with a piece of denim. A post-mortem confirmed he died from asphyxiation caused by smothering.
The court also heard that Chiloba had been sexually assaulted before his death.
Although there was speculation that the crime stemmed from an intimate partner dispute, the court did not make a conclusive finding on the motive.
Justice Nyakundi said the sentence reflected the severity of the crime and its impact on the community.
Source-BBC
