Athletics Kenya has joined the global athletics community in mourning the tragic death of Ugandan marathoner Rebecca Cheptegei, who passed away on Thursday morning after succumbing to burn injuries.
Cheptegei, 33, was receiving treatment at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County after she was allegedly set on fire by a former boyfriend.
She suffered over 80 per cent burns, with significant damage to her vital organs.
In a statement signed by president Jackson Tuwei, AK relayed their condolences to the family, friends and people of Uganda.
“I am heartbroken to hear about the passing away of Ugandan athlete Rebecca Cheptegei who was recuperating at the Moi Teaching and Referral hospital,” Tuwei said.
“I pass my condolences to the family, friends and the people of Uganda who have lost a gallant daughter of the soil, a mother and a great athlete per excellence. My prayer at this moment is for the Lord God to strengthen all of you and comfort you in the best way possible that no other human being can."
AK condemned the attack.
“Unreservedly, I condemn the incident that led to her untimely demise in the strongest terms possible. Rebecca’s death is a huge loss to the world of athletics and a cruel end to a talent that was well on its way to the top,” the statement read.
The boyfriend is admitted to the Intensive Care Unit of the same facility with 30 per cent burns.
The federation assured the family of their full support during their grieving period.
“As AK, we commit our support to the family and friends of Rebecca as well as the people of Uganda at this difficult time,” the statement concluded.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen vowed swift government action.
“This tragedy is a stark reminder that we must do more to combat gender-based violence in our society. As a government, we remain committed to supporting justice for Rebecca,” he said.
Uganda’s first lady Janet Museveni, on her X account, said: “The news of our daughter’s tragic death due to domestic violence is deeply disturbing. My heartfelt condolences go out to the athletics community and the entire nation on the loss of our Olympian.”
Cheptegei’s decorated career includes a victory at the 2021 Padova Marathon (2:31:21), a runner-up finish at the 2011 Madrid Half Marathon (1:13:56), and third place at the 2016 Guangzhou Half Marathon (1:13:33).
At the Paris Olympics, Cheptegei finished 44th in 2:32:14.
