The violent killing of LGBTQ activist Edwin Chiloba has drawn the attention of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights.
The commission issued a statement condemning the conduct and lamenting the fact that it occurred at a time when there were several unsolved murders of advocates for sexual rights across the nation. The commission’s chair, Roseline Odede, stated that it was concerning that those who were viewed as different were still being targeted.
In Kapsaret, Uasin Gishu, near the Kipenyo-Kaptinga road, Chiloba’s lifeless body was discovered hidden inside a metal box. Odede listed several unresolved cases, including the murders of Sheila Lumumba, Erica Chandra, and Joash Mosoti.
She defended the group by stating that because everyone’s right to life is “sacrosanct,” nobody should be killed for allying themselves with or supporting sexual minorities. The chairwoman said this is concerning and indicates a breakdown in the delivery of services that ensure the fundamental freedoms and rights and urged the security to perform quick investigations.
“This is a cry for Chiloba and those who have been slain in the past to receive justice. The Constitution guarantees everyone’s safety and protection from all sorts of abuse, torture, and violence “She spoke.
Odede recommended that the National Police Service increase its efforts to ensure that no Kenyan is unjustly harmed or targeted because of their alleged affiliations or views. Additionally, the commission has urged anyone with information that could aid in the inquiry to contact the KNCHR or the police.
Jacktone Odhiambo has been detained as a key suspect in the murder. The freelance photographer from Nairobi is reportedly the deceased’s longtime buddy. The two suspects who are thought to have assisted in loading Chiloba’s body into a metal box before it was discarded are also being sought by police.
According to investigations, according to Peter Kimulwo, the head of the Uasin Gishu DCI, the dead looked to have been strangled and had one eye gouged out.