Fatshimétrie
The verdict has been handed down in Kenya, sending shockwaves through the country and beyond. The roommate of an LGBTQ+ activist has been sentenced to 50 years in prison for the murder of Edwin Chiloba, whose mutilated body was found in a metal box nearly two years ago. The heinous crime has highlighted the challenges facing LGBTQ+ rights advocates in a largely conservative country like Kenya, where gay rights are still flouted.
Jacktone Odhiambo, the perpetrator, has denied the charges despite his DNA being found on the victim’s body. Evidence revealed that the two men were in an intimate relationship, but the court did not specify a motive for the murder. During the trial, witnesses reported hearing an argument between the two roommates and then seeing Odhiambo move the metal box containing the body.
Judge Reuben Nyakundi said the murder was premeditated, with Odhiambo having waited for the two men to return home after a night out at a nightclub. Chiloba had struggle marks on his hands, indicating that he had tried to defend himself.
The LGBTQ+ community in Kenya has long denounced discrimination and attacks against them, but police have ruled out the possibility that the murder was a hate crime. Despite the lack of official recognition, it is undeniable that LGBTQ+ people continue to face dangers and injustices because of their identity.
This sad event once again raises the question of protecting and recognizing the rights of LGBTQ+ people around the world. The fight for equality and respect for sexual and gender diversity must be a priority for all societies, in order to prevent such violent acts from happening again in the future.
Ultimately, Odhamibo’s conviction will not bring Edwin Chiloba back to life, but it does send a strong message that justice will be served, and those guilty of hate crimes or discrimination will be held accountable for their actions. The road to equality is still long, but every step towards recognizing everyone’s fundamental rights is a step in the right direction.