A Kenyan court has handed down a 35-year prison sentence to two men for the murder of Ugandan Olympic athlete Benjamin Kiplagat, who was tragically killed last year. After a lengthy nine-month trial, the High Court in Eldoret found Peter Ushuru Khalumi, 30, and David Ekai Lokere, 25, guilty of fatally stabbing the 34-year-old steeplechaser.
In his ruling, Judge Reuben Nyakundi cited compelling evidence from CCTV footage that clearly indicated the defendants “intentionally killed” Kiplagat. He noted their lack of remorse for what he described as a “premeditated crime,” justifying the severe sentence imposed on both men.
“Your actions were cruel towards a defenseless individual whose life you cut short, going against the divine plan for humanity,” Nyakundi remarked as he sentenced each defendant to 35 years in prison.
Kiplagat’s mother, Elizabeth Chemweno, along with his two brothers, had urged the court to impose life sentences instead, but their plea was ultimately rejected.
The defendants were apprehended shortly after Kiplagat’s body was discovered in his car on New Year’s Eve, with a severe neck wound. The shocking incident sent ripples through the nation, known for its prowess in long-distance running, and led to an outpouring of tributes for the fallen athlete.
Kiplagat had a distinguished career that spanned nearly two decades, representing Uganda in the 3,000m steeplechase at various international competitions, including multiple Olympic Games and World Championships. He secured a silver medal at the 2008 World Junior Championships and a bronze at the African Championships in 2012. Notably, he reached the semi-finals in the 3,000m steeplechase at the 2012 London Olympics and also competed in the 2016 Rio Games. In 2007, he broke the Ugandan national 3,000m steeplechase record, previously set in 1977, by more than eight seconds.
This incident adds to a troubling trend in Kenya, which has seen a rise in the deaths and violence involving notable athletes in recent years.
