This story incorporates references to and graphic descriptions of home violence.
Ugandan Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei has died at a Kenyan hospital the place she was being handled after 80 per cent of her physique was burned in an alleged assault by her accomplice.
The nation’s cupboard secretary for sports activities stated authorities should do extra to fight gender-based violence.
Moi Educating and Referral Hospital in Eldoret metropolis confirmed Cheptegei’s demise on Thursday.
Owen Menach, a spokesperson from the hospital advised Reuters the long-distance runner, 33, died early within the morning after her organs failed.
She had been absolutely sedated on admission to the hospital.
Her accomplice had allegedly poured petrol on her and set it alight.
Cheptegei competed within the girls’s marathon on the Paris Olympics lower than a month earlier than the alleged assault. She completed in forty fourth place.
Her father, Joseph Cheptegei, advised journalists on the hospital he had misplaced a daughter who was “very supportive” and he hoped to get justice.
Trans Nzoia County police commander Jeremiah ole Kosiom stated on Monday that Cheptegei’s accomplice allegedly attacked her throughout a disagreement on Sunday.
He was additionally burned and was being handled on the similar hospital.
Menach stated he was nonetheless within the intensive care unit with burns over 30 per cent of his physique however was “bettering and secure”.
Cheptegei’s mother and father stated their daughter purchased land in Trans Nzoia to be close to the county’s many athletic coaching centres.
A report filed by the native chief stated the 2 have been heard preventing over the land the place her home was constructed earlier than the alleged assault.
‘We have to do extra to fight gender-based violence’
The Uganda Athletics Federation wrote on the social platform X: “We’re deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei, early this morning who tragically fell sufferer to home violence.
“As a federation, we condemn such acts and name for justice. Could her soul relaxation in peace.”
Uganda Olympic Committee president Donald Rukare referred to as the alleged assault “a cowardly and mindless act that has led to the lack of a fantastic athlete”.
Kenya’s cupboard secretary for sports activities, Kipchumba Murkomen, stated the federal government would guarantee justice for the sufferer.
“This tragedy is a stark reminder that we should do extra to fight gender-based violence in our society, which in recent times has reared its ugly head in elite sporting circles,” he wrote in a press release.
For those who or somebody you realize is impacted by household and home violence, name 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, textual content 0458 737 732, or go to . In an emergency, name 000.
