A tragic incident has shaken the running community as Olympic marathoner Rebecca Cheptegei was doused in petrol and set on fire by her former boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema Marangach. The attack left Cheptegei with severe burns on over 75% of her body, ultimately leading to her untimely death. Marangach, who suffered 41% burns from the same incident, succumbed to his injuries shortly after.
Domestic violence in the East African country, especially within the running community, has come under scrutiny following Cheptegei’s tragic demise. This incident highlights the exploitation and violence faced by female athletes in Kenya, where the allure of prize money attracts dangerous individuals.
Rights groups and advocates for survivors of domestic violence emphasize the need for justice and protection for women in vulnerable positions. The shocking statistics of violence against women in Kenya only further emphasize the urgent need for intervention and support systems to prevent such tragedies from reoccurring.
As the world mourns the loss of Rebecca Cheptegei, the call for justice and the protection of vulnerable women grows louder in Kenya and beyond.