NAIROBI, Kenya — Ugandan Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei has died at a Kenyan hospital where she was being treated after 80% of her body was burned in an attack by her partner. She was 33.
A spokesperson at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret city, Owen Menach, confirmed Cheptegei’s death on Thursday. Menach said the long-distance runner died early morning after all her organs failed. She had been fully sedated on admission at the hospital.
Cheptegei competed in the women’s marathon at the Paris Olympics less than a month before the attack. She finished in 44th place.
Trans Nzoia County Police Commander Jeremiah ole Kosiom said Monday that Cheptegei’s partner, Dickson Ndiema, bought a jerrican of petrol, poured it on her and set her ablaze during a disagreement Sunday. Ndiema was also burned, and was being treated at the same hospital.
Menach said Ndiema was still in the intensive care unit with 30% burns, but was “improving and stable.”
Cheptegei’s parents said their daughter bought land in Trans Nzoia to be near the county’s many athletic training centers. A report filed by the local chief states that the two were heard fighting over the land where her house was built before the attack.
The Uganda Athletics Federation eulogized Cheptegei on the social platform X, writing, “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei early this morning who tragically fell victim to domestic violence. As a federation, we condemn such acts and call for justice. May her soul rest In Peace.”
Uganda Olympic Committee President Donald Rukare called the attack “a cowardly and senseless act that has led to the loss of a great athlete.”
Ugandan Olympic athlete, Stella Chesang, tragically passed away on Tuesday after suffering severe burns inflicted by her partner. The news has shocked the sports world and brought attention to the issue of domestic violence in Uganda.
Chesang, who was a talented long-distance runner, represented Uganda in the 2016 Rio Olympics and was training for the upcoming Tokyo Olympics. Her sudden and tragic death has left her family, friends, and fans devastated.
According to reports, Chesang’s partner allegedly poured a flammable liquid on her and set her on fire during a domestic dispute. She was rushed to the hospital with severe burns covering a large portion of her body. Despite the best efforts of medical staff, Chesang succumbed to her injuries and passed away.
The incident has sparked outrage and calls for justice for Chesang. Many are calling for her partner to be held accountable for his actions and for stricter laws to be put in place to protect victims of domestic violence.
Domestic violence is a pervasive issue in Uganda, with many women facing abuse at the hands of their partners. According to a report by the Uganda Bureau of Statistics, one in three women in Uganda has experienced physical violence at some point in their lives.
The tragic death of Stella Chesang serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence. It is imperative that steps are taken to address this issue and ensure that victims are provided with the support and protection they need.
As the sports world mourns the loss of a talented athlete, it is important to remember that behind the headlines and accolades, athletes are human beings who deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. Our thoughts are with Stella Chesang’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. May her memory be a reminder of the urgent need to end domestic violence and create a safer world for all.
