Two men have been sentenced to 35 years each for the murder of Ugandan Olympic steeplechaser Benjamin Kiplagat in Eldoret, Kenya. Kiplagat, known for his prowess in the 3,000m steeplechase and holder of Uganda’s national record, was tragically killed on New Year’s Eve last year in Eldoret—a prominent training hub for athletes. Justice Reuben Nyakundi, who presided over the case, condemned the actions of Peter Ushuru Khalumi and David Ekai Lokere, stating that they had committed a cruel, premeditated act against a defenseless person.

CCTV footage showed the two men following Kiplagat before launching the fatal attack. The court heard an emotional plea from Kiplagat’s mother, who had requested life sentences for the perpetrators. She highlighted her son’s journey from running barefoot to becoming an international competitor and the family’s main supporter. While the court did not impose life sentences, Kiplagat’s family expressed relief at the justice served.

Kiplagat competed in the 2008, 2012, and 2016 Olympics, inspiring many with his dedication and resilience.