The tragic and senseless loss of Benjamin Kiplagat, a talented athlete with a promising career, highlights a broader issue of violence and insecurity that continues to affect many communities.
Now, a Kenyan court has sentenced two men to 35 years in prison for the murder of Kiplagat, who was killed last year.
Guilty Verdict After Lengthy Trial
Following a nine-month trial, the High Court in Eldoret found Peter Ushuru Khalumi, 30, and David Ekai Lokere, 25, guilty of stabbing the 34-year-old steeplechaser to death.
The ruling came on Tuesday, according to AFP reports.
Judge Reuben Nyakundi explained that CCTV footage provided overwhelming evidence, showing that the two men had “intentionally killed” Kiplagat.
He further added that they had shown no remorse for their actions, describing the crime as “premeditated” and deserving of a severe punishment.
“Your actions were cruel to a defenceless person whose life you cut short contrary to God’s plan, where God intended man to live for a minimum of 70 years,” said Nyakundi during the sentencing.
Life Sentence Request From Kiplagat Family
The judge also rejected a request from Kiplagat’s family, including his mother Elizabeth Chemweno and his two brothers, who had asked for life sentences for Khalumi and Lokere.
The two men were arrested the day after Kiplagat’s body was found in his car on the outskirts of Eldoret on New Year’s Eve.
He had suffered a deep wound to his neck.
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The shocking murder sent ripples of disbelief throughout Kenya, a country known for its dominance in long-distance running.
Tributes poured in from across the country, mourning the loss of the talented athlete.
Kiplagat’s Legacy in Athletics
Kiplagat had a distinguished career in athletics, representing Uganda internationally in the 3,000m steeplechase.
He competed at several Olympic Games and World Championships during his career.
In 2008, Kiplagat earned a silver medal in the 3,000m steeplechase at the World Junior Championships.
Four years later, he won a bronze at the African Championships.
He also reached the semi-finals of the 3,000m steeplechase at the 2012 London Olympics and competed in the 2016 Rio Olympics.
In 2007, Kiplagat made history by breaking the Ugandan national 3,000m steeplechase record, shaving more than eight seconds off the previous record that had stood since 1977.
Kiplagat’s death is part of a wider pattern of tragic incidents involving prominent athletes in Kenya in recent years.
His murder has added to the growing concern about the safety and well-being of athletes in the region.
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