Members of the clergy from the main denominations kept off the burial ceremony as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (LGBTQ) activist Edwin Kipruto Kiprotich, popularly known as Edwin Chiloba.
Instead, a chaplain from the University of Eldoret presided over the last rites of the deceased as his family and friends demanded justice for his brutal murder.
He was laid to rest at the family home in Sergoit, Elgeyo Marakwet County on January 17, 2023.
“Our hearts were shattered when we positively identified his body at the morgue. It was a traumatizing experience and we are yet to come to terms with this loss,” recalled Ms Caustencia Tanui, a cousin to the deceased.
She observed that the news about his sexual orientation was traumatizing.
“We applaud security agencies for the progress made in bringing the killers to book. We are hurt by information in the media about his sexuality especially when we know he practiced Christian values,” she added.
The deceased’s aunt namely Margaret Chepyego noted the family will not rest until justice is served.
Family and friends described the deceased as humble, determined, and passionate about the fashion industry.
The university fraternity stated that his death was a huge loss to the fashion industry and to the country.
The LGBT activist’s remains were found dumped in Kipkenyo, outskirts of Eldoret town after he had gone missing for two days on December 31.
Police are holding five people in relation to his murder.
