Uganda mourns 2024 Paris female Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei

Ugandans are mourning the loss of one of their top athletes, Rebecca Cheptegei, who passed away on Wednesday morning due to injuries sustained from petrol burns.

Cheptegei, who competed in the recent Paris Olympics, succumbed to her injuries at Moi Referral Hospital in Kenya. According to reports, she was attacked by her former boyfriend in the town of Trans Nzoia.

“The Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF) confirmed the demise of Rebecca Cheptegei after a fight with her former boyfriend,” stated the Ugandan athletics body.

Dominic Otuchet, President of the UAF, expressed profound sadness over the loss. “We are deeply saddened about the passing of Cheptegei. As a federation, we condemn such acts and call for justice,” Otuchet added.

Janet Kataaha Museveni, Uganda’s First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, also shared her grief. “The news of our daughter, Rebecca Cheptegei’s tragic death due to domestic violence is deeply disturbing,” she wrote on the X platform.

Mary Murungi, an athletics supporter, told Xinhua, “These athletes carry our flag high and Cheptegei has been working hard and doing well for the country. It is very hurting that she has died in very stupid circumstances. We pray for her soul.”

Peter Ogwang, Uganda’s State Minister for Sports, also expressed sorrow. “We mourn with the family about the death of Cheptegei. Kenyan authorities are investigating the circumstances under which she died, and a more detailed report will be provided in due course,” said Ogwang.

Cheptegei’s father, Joseph Cheptegei, expressed the family’s grief. “Rebecca was very hard working and supported not only her children but many others. It’s a very sad day for us,” he said.

David Mukasa, another sports supporter, echoed similar sentiments. “This is a dark day for Uganda. Cheptegei carried our national flag high. Her former boyfriend must be brought to justice,” he said.

Dr. Donald Rukare, President of the Uganda Olympic Committee (UOC), described Cheptegei’s death as a painful loss. “This was a cowardly and senseless act that has led to the loss of a great athlete. Her legacy will endure,” Rukare stated.

Cheptegei, 33, competed in the marathon at the 2024 Paris Olympics, finishing 44th. She is also remembered for winning gold at the 2022 World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in Chiang Mai, Thailand. ■