Celebrated model and LGBTQ activist Edwin Kiprotich Kipruto Chiloba died of asphyxia (suffocation that occurs when the body is deprived of oxygen), an autopsy report shows.It follows a postmortem conducted by Chief Government Pathologist Dr. Johansen Oduor, which indicated that the gay activist was killed by covering the nose and mouth with a piece of jeans cloth and pair of socks that caused his suffocation.
"The cause of death was asphyxia by smothering of nose and mouth so that he could not breathe," explained Dr. Oduor, adding that the decomposing body had no physical injuries.He said more samples have been taken to Government Chemist for further analysis. This will establish other factors that contributed to the death of the activist whose decomposing body was last Wednesday found stashed in a metal box that was dumped along the Kipenyo – Kaptinga road, in Kapsaret, Uasin Gishu County.
"We have taken samples and swabs for advance analysis to know if the victim was raped," added Dr. Oduor.
Family satisfied
The family members expressed satisfaction with the autopsy report as they began funeral arrangements and plan to set the burial date.
MTRH Chief Executive Officer Dr. Wilson Aruasa called for tolerance to allow police to conclude investigations and have suspects behind the murder face the law.
"Cultural changes are taking place in our society and there is a need to guide the youth on how to adopt the new values," said Dr. Aruasa.
The shocking killing of Mr. Chiloba who was famous within the streets of Eldoret came after he had survived an attack four months ago when unknown assailants said to be against his LGBTQ lifestyle pounced on him and beat him up. He suffered injuries including a large cut on his lips and bruises all over his face.
US Government
The US Government has offered to assist Kenyan authorities with investigations into the murder of the University of Eldoret (UOE) fashion and design student.
"We urge and expect the Kenyans to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into his death. And of course, if there's anything we can do to assist, we stand ready to do that, "said Ned Price, the US State Department Spokesperson.
Price condemned violence against LGBTQ persons, terming it unacceptable, adding that intolerance has no place in a free and open society.
"Violence against LGBTQI+ persons or anyone, of course, is unacceptable. But when violence stems from possible bias or stigma, it indirectly harms all members of the targeted community," said Price.
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