Kenyan photographer Jacktone Odhiambo has been sentenced to 50 years in prison for murdering LGBTQ+ activist Edwin Chiloba nearly two years ago.

The ruling, delivered by Judge Reuben Nyakundi, highlighted the “diabolical manner” of the killing. Chiloba, a 25-year-old fashion designer and university student, was smothered to death, and his body was found in a metal box on a roadside in Eldoret.

According to evidence presented in court, Odhiambo sexually assaulted Chiloba before killing him and later used the victim’s money. DNA evidence and testimony from 23 witnesses linked Odhiambo to the crime.

During sentencing, the judge noted Odhiambo’s lack of remorse, calling him “vengeful.” However, after the verdict, Odhiambo collapsed and cried in court.

The murder, which shocked Kenya’s LGBTQ+ community, has drawn attention to the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the country.

BBC