Jacktone Odhiambo Convicted of Murdering LGBTQ Activist Edwin Chiloba

A Kenyan court convicted Jacktone Odhiambo of murdering LGBTQ activist Edwin Chiloba, whose body was found in a metal box in Eldoret. The judge stated that ample evidence linked Odhiambo to the crime, which included sexual assault. Human rights groups condemned the murder as a hate crime, underscoring the risks faced by LGBTQ individuals in Kenya. Odhiambo is scheduled for sentencing on December 16, 2023.

A Kenyan court has found Jacktone Odhiambo guilty of murdering Edwin Kiprotich Kipruto, also known as Edwin Chiloba, a prominent LGBTQ activist. Chiloba’s body was discovered in a metal box along a roadside in Eldoret, where he was a university student. The evidence presented by the prosecution, including DNA tests, confirmed Odhiambo’s involvement in the crime and indicated that he had sexually assaulted Chiloba before the murder. Despite denying the charges, the court ruled that the intention behind the killing stemmed from a deep-seated animosity toward Chiloba’s sexuality.

During the trial, Judge Reuben Nyakundi emphasized the suspect’s betrayal, highlighting that Odhiambo, described as a close friend, failed to protect Chiloba’s life. The court noted the gruesome details of Chiloba’s death, including suffocation caused by items stuffed into his mouth and a cloth tied around his face. The court did not ascertain a clear motive for the murder, but human rights organizations have condemned the act as a hate crime motivated by prejudices against LGBTQ individuals. Odhiambo is slated for sentencing on December 16, 2023.

The case of Edwin Chiloba has garnered international attention, highlighting the dangers faced by LGBTQ individuals in Kenya, where homosexuality is criminalized. Activism for LGBTQ rights in the country encounters significant pushback, and incidents of violence against this community are not uncommon. The murder of Chiloba, who was celebrated for his advocacy, triggered widespread outrage and calls for justice, reflecting broader societal issues regarding acceptance and equality in Kenya. The outcome of this case has been viewed as pivotal in the fight for LGBTQ rights in Africa.

The conviction of Jacktone Odhiambo for the murder of Edwin Chiloba marks a significant legal milestone in addressing violence against LGBTQ individuals in Kenya. This case serves as a reminder of the persistent threats facing this community and highlights the need for systemic change to ensure their safety and rights. As the court prepares to announce Odhiambo’s sentencing, advocates hope for a decision that reinforces the importance of justice in combating hate crimes in the region.

Original Source: www.bbc.com