Two sentenced to 35 years for murder of athlete Edward Kiplagat in Eldoret

Eldoret High Court Judge Reuben Nyakundi delivered the sentence, stating that the evidence, including CCTV footage, clearly implicated the two men in Kiplagat's stabbing on December 31, 2023, at the Kimumu Estate in Moiben, Uasin Gishu County.

While passing the sentence, Justice Nyakundi acknowledged that this was both men's first offence, but emphasised the strength of the prosecution's evidence, which proved their involvement in the athlete's murder.

Despite the Kiplagat family's plea for a life sentence, led by Kiplagat's mother, Elizabeth Chemweno, the judge determined that 35 years was an appropriate sentence given all of the circumstances.

The court granted Lokere and Khalumi 14 days to appeal the verdict.

Kiplagat's family, led by his brother Vincent Chemweno, expressed satisfaction with the sentencing, saying they believe justice was served for their loved one.

The case has provided some closure to the family, who have been mourning Kiplagat's untimely death for the past year.