- As Ugandan man accused of setting Olympian alight dies
As a sequel to the gruesome attack on Ugandan Olympian, Rebecca Cheptegei, which led to her death, the International Federation of Women Lawyers, FIDA Africa has called on stakeholders eliminate femicide and uphold the dignity and rights of women across Africa.
In a statement jointly signed by FIDA International President Carolina Rios Villota and the Regional Vice President, Africa, Joy C. Ejim the association said: “This tragic incident is not just a crime it represents a disturbing continuation of the epidemic of femicide and gender-based violence that plagues our and stains our collective conscience.”
FIDA Africa in the statement further stated: “The brutal killing of Rebecca Cheptegei highlights the urgent and dire need to confront the systemic issues that allow such acts of violence to persist against women and girls.
“As legal professionals who are committed to upholding justice and protecting the rights of all individuals especially women and children, we abhor to be counted in the number of silent and passive witnesses over the suffering of women who continuously face violence in various forms.
“Femicide is not an isolated event; it is a reflection of pervasive societal norms that devalue women and render them vulnerable to violence. We recognize that the killing of Rebecca Cheptegei is symptomatic of a larger crisis that spans borders and cultures, revealing deep-rooted misogyny and the urgent need for comprehensive legal and cultural reforms across Africa.
“We call upon all relevant authorities, both in Uganda and Kenya, to take immediate and decisive action in the pursuit of justice for Rebecca Cheptegei and her grieving family…
Some of their suggested action plan to tackle violence against women include:
“Preventive Measures: Governments must enact and enforce stringent laws that protect women from violence and ensure that victims of domestic abuse receive immediate support and resources.
“Public Awareness and Education: We urge both government and civil society organizations to promote awareness campaigns that challenge gender norms and empower women, ensuring that future generations understand the detrimental impact of violence against women.
“Support for Victims: We call for the establishment of effective support systems for victims of gender-based violence, including safe shelters, legal aid, and psychological support…
“Let this tragedy ignite a renewed commitment among all stakeholders – government, legal entities, civil society, and individuals to eliminate femicide and uphold the dignity and rights of women across Africa. We will not rest until justice is served, and we will continue to advocate for a safer and more equitable society for all women.”
In the meantime, the man accused of dousing gasoline on the Olympic athlete, causing her death days later, has succumbed to burns sustained in the attack, according to the Kenyan hospital where he was treated.
Dickson Ndiema was admitted at the Moi Referral Hospital in the western Eldoret city for burns covering 30% of his body.
Ndiema is alleged to have sustained the injuries after setting on fire Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei, who died last Thursday with 80% of burns on her body.
The hospital spokesperson, Owen Menach, said Tuesday that the hospital would issue a statement later but confirmed that the patient had died.
According to a report filed by the local chief, Ndiema and Cheptegei quarrelled over a piece of land that the athlete bought in Kenya.
Cheptegei competed in the women’s marathon at the Paris Olympics less than a month before the attack.
She finished in 44th place.
Cheptegei’s parents said their daughter bought land in the Trans Nzoia county near Kenya’s many athletic training centres.
The athlete’s father, Joseph Cheptegei, told reporters last week that Ndiema, his daughter’s former boyfriend, was stalking and threatening her and the family had informed the police.
He said he wanted justice and lamented that the suspect was not being guarded at his hospital bed and expressed concern that he might escape.
Cheptegei is expected to be buried at her home in Uganda.
