Guilty verdict for murder of Kenyan LGBTQ activist – DW – December 5, 2024

Kenyan judge Reuben Nyakundi ruled that the prosecution had presented sufficient evidence to prove Jacktone Odhiambo’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt in the murder of LGBTQ+ activist Edwin Chiloba. Sentencing is scheduled for December 16.

The judge noted that forensic and DNA tests revealed a close relationship between Jacktone Odhiambo and Edwin Chiloba; He added that the evidence was a crucial part of the case as it provided insight into the nature of their connection and supported the prosecution’s argument linking Odhiambo to the crime.

Chiloba, a well-known LGBTQ+ rights activist and model, was reported missing in January 2023. His body was found the following day, packed in a metal box on a road near Eldoret.

The discovery sparked a national and international outcry, with human rights organizations raising concerns about the dangers faced by LGBTQ+ people in Kenya.

Condemnation from human rights groups

Groups such as the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights and Amnesty International Kenya condemned the killing. They called on authorities to ensure a thorough investigation and justice for the murdered activist.

Odhiambo, who had been living with Chiloba in an apartment in Eldoret, was arrested shortly after the incident.

The investigation revealed that the murder occurred between December 31, 2022 and January 3, 2023, when the body was recovered.

The court heard testimony from 22 witnesses, including government pathologist Dr. Johansen Oduor, who confirmed that Chiloba died of asphyxia due to suffocation.

Although Odhiambo denied involvement, the evidence presented at trial was overwhelming, according to Justice Nyakundi.

Demand greater protection for sexual minorities

Activists in Kenya have called for greater protection for sexual minorities and an end to violence and discrimination.

Ivy Werimba, communications and advocacy officer at galck+, a coalition of 16 LGBTIQ organizations in Kenya, described the ruling as long-awaited justice for Kenya’s LGBTQ+ community.

“It’s justice that took a long time to get there,” Werimba told DW. “My thanks go to the National Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission and all the partners with whom it has worked. They have been patient and committed to not only mobilizing the community to appear in court, but also to bringing the case themselves.” The point at which we finally have a sentencing date.

Werimba highlighted the systemic barriers that LGBTQ+ people face in seeking justice in Kenya and other African countries.

“The system is not convinced that the community is truly considered or should be served by justice. In 2023, the first was just a shock – that two men were in a relationship and that this had happened in the context of a same-sex relationship,” she explained, adding that such a reaction is reflected in the justice system and in media conversations.

Verdict marks an important milestone for LGBTQ+ rights in Kenya

Despite the challenges, Werimba said the verdict was a milestone.

“It’s really great that we finally have a ruling that highlights that there’s nothing special about queer people saying they want their rights,” she emphasized.

“We are also Kenyan citizens living our own lives and going through things that we want our institutions to help us with,” she said. “This ruling is a sign of progress and shows that queer people are being noticed by various institutions, especially the judiciary.”

Francis Musii, a student at Jomo Kenyatta University, echoed Werimba’s sentiments.

“This verdict shows that justice can work for everyone, no matter who they are. It is a step forward for equality in our country,” Musii told DW. “But let’s be honest, this case only got attention because it got a lot of attention. There are so many others who never receive justice; they also need justice.”

The case has drawn attention to the widespread violence and discrimination faced by members of the LGBTQ+ community in Kenya, where same-sex relationships remain criminalized.

Activists have called for urgent reforms to protect marginalized communities and stressed the importance of addressing deep-rooted societal biases that often lead to tragic consequences.

Edited by: Chrispin Mwakideu