The defense case in the murder trial of LGBTQ activist and fashion designer Edwin Kiprotich, also known as Chiloba, has officially concluded. The trial, which centers on the gruesome killing that occurred between December 31, 2022, and January 3, 2023, has attracted widespread attention both locally and internationally, particularly regarding LGBTQ rights and safety in Kenya.
The prime suspect, Jacktone Odhiambo, a 25-year-old freelance photographer and close associate of Chiloba, faces charges of killing the University of Eldoret student. Odhiambo has denied all charges related to the murder, which took place at the Noble Breeze Apartment in Uasin Gishu County.
Chiloba’s decomposed body was found on January 3, 2023, stashed in a metallic box along the Kipkenyo-Kaptinga road in Kapseret Sub County, 10 kilometers from Eldoret town. The prosecution, led by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), presented 22 witnesses during the year-long trial, including government pathologist Johansen Oduor and forensic experts.
Key testimony came from Polycarp Kweyu, the principal chemist from the government chemist in Kisumu, who testified that DNA samples taken from the crime scene matched Odhiambo’s DNA. Seminal fluids and other biological evidence were collected from Chiloba’s body, as well as items from the apartment, further linking Odhiambo to the murder.
Government Analyst Jane Waya, who conducted toxicological tests on the deceased, confirmed that “no chemical substances were found in Chiloba’s system, which the prosecution used to argue against any suggestions of poisoning or drug use as a factor in his death”.
As the defense closed its case, Odhiambo maintained his innocence, challenging the validity of the evidence and questioning how it was handled. Justice Reuben Nyakundi, presiding over the case, has directed both the defense and prosecution to file their final submissions within two weeks. A judgment is expected on November 8, 2024.
