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Cabinet Secretary, Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports Kipchumba Murkomen on Thursday, September 5, 2024, announced the government’s resolve to push for justice for Rebecca Cheptegei.

Cheptegei, the 33-year-old Ugandan marathon runner who competed in the recent Paris Olympics, passed on after suffering severe burns following an attack by a former boyfriend.

In his statement, Murkomen maintained that no one should go through such an ugly ordeal. He called on the need to address gender-based violence, which has claimed the lives of several athletes in the country.

“This tragedy is a stark reminder that we must do more to combat gender-based violence in our society, which in recent years has reared its ugly head in elite sporting circles. As a government, we remain committed to supporting justice for Rebecca. No one should have to go through such an ordeal. May her soul rest in peace, “Murkomen’s statement read in part.

The Sports CS described the deceased as an outstanding athlete who showcased the spirit of resilience while representing the neighbouring Ugandan nation.

“I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Rebecca Cheptegel, Uganda’s Women’s Marathon record holder, and a Paris 2024 Olympian. Rebecca was an outstanding athlete who showcased the spirit of resilience in representing Uganda and East Africa. Her passing is not only a loss to Uganda and the athletics community, but to the entire region,” the CS eulogised her.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Masika Wetang’ula echoed Murkomen’s sentiments, hoping that the ongoing investigations would serve the athlete’s family justice.

I join fellow Kenyans, Ugandans, and all who knew and loved Rebecca Cheptegei in mourning her tragic passing. As a remarkable athlete, her spirit and dedication inspired so many.

While we honor her memory, we also recognize the gravity of the circumstances surrounding her loss,… pic.twitter.com/5PHpHd4NEG

— Rt.Hon.Dr.Moses Wetang'ula (@HonWetangula) September 5, 2024

The attack

Cheptegei, who competed in the women’s marathon at the 2024 Paris Olympics, was set on fire at her home in Trans Nzoia on Sunday, September 1, 2024.

Cheptegei succumbed to multiple organ failure after suffering 80 per cent burns from the attack.

The athlete was admitted transferred to an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) on Monday, September 2, 2024, following the incident. Before her passing, plans were underway to transfer her to Nairobi for more specialised care.

Condolence messages

Cheptegei’s death was confirmed by the Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF) on Thursday, September 5, 2024.

“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei, early this morning, who tragically fell victim to domestic violence. As a federation, we condemn such acts and call for justice. May her soul rest in peace,” UAF said.

Team Kenya also mourned the athlete, indicating that she showcased perseverance on the track.

“On behalf of Team Kenya, we extend our deepest condolences to the Ugandan sports community, family, and friends of Rebecca Cheptegei. Rebecca’s talent and perseverance as Uganda’s Women’s Marathon record holder and a Paris 2024 Olympian will always be remembered and celebrated.

“Her untimely and tragic passing is a profound loss, and our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time as we honour her legacy and advocate for an end to gender-based violence. May her soul rest in peace,” Team Kenya said in a statement on X.