NAIROBI, Kenya, Dec 5 — Jackton Odhiambo, the prime suspect in the murder of LGBTQ activist Edwin Kiprotich Kiptoo, also known as Chiloba, has been found guilty by the Eldoret High Court.
The court convicted Odhiambo after the prosecution, led by Mark Mugun, presented compelling evidence from 23 witnesses that detailed the events surrounding Chiloba’s death. According to the Office of The Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), the evidence proved beyond reasonable doubt that Odhiambo intentionally caused Chiloba’s death.
Justice Nyakundi, in delivering his judgment, confirmed that the prosecution had successfully proven all the necessary elements of murder, as defined under Section 203 of the Penal Code and as protected by Article 26(1) of the Kenyan Constitution, which ensures the right to life.
“I have reviewed all evidence, including the last-seen theory, forensic and DNA evidence, as well as swabs taken, and concluded that you were directly involved at the crime scene,” stated Justice Nyakundi.
While the motive behind the murder was not clearly established, the judge emphasized that the brutal manner of Chiloba’s killing indicated malice aforethought, suggesting deep hatred toward the victim.
Chiloba, a final-year student pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Apparel Fashion and Design at the University of Eldoret, was found dead in January 2023. His decomposing body was discovered in a metallic box on January 3, along the Kipkenyo-Kaptinga road in Kapseret Sub County, about 10 kilometers from Eldoret town.
The sentencing of Jackton Odhiambo is set for December 16, 2024.