Ugandan Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei in Critical Condition After Partner’s Violent Attack
Kenya: Ugandan Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei is fighting for her life after suffering severe burns in a shocking case of gender-based violence. The 33-year-old long-distance runner, who recently competed in the Paris Olympics, was doused in petrol and set on fire by her partner, Dickson Ndiema Marangach, at her home in Endebess, Kenya.
Horrific Attack Details
The attack occurred Sunday afternoon while Cheptegei and her children were away at church. According to police reports, Marangach snuck into her home with petrol, pouring it over her before setting her ablaze. Neighbors quickly intervened, extinguishing the flames and rushing both Cheptegei and Marangach, who also sustained burns, to Kitale County Referral Hospital. They were later transferred to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, where Cheptegei remains in intensive care.
Fighting for Survival
Cheptegei, who has burns covering over 80% of her body, is in critical condition. Hospital officials described her injuries as “deep and severe,” with burns penetrating through to the muscles in her back. “We’re doing all we can to save her life,” said Owen Menach, the hospital’s acting CEO.
Marangach, suffering from burns on 30% of his body, is also receiving treatment at the hospital.
A History of Violence
Local media reports indicate that Cheptegei and Marangach, who were in a tumultuous relationship, frequently had domestic disputes. The Ugandan athlete, who had settled in Kenya, reportedly bought land and built a house in the Trans-Nzoia area, which borders Uganda.
Condemnation and Calls for Action
The attack has sparked outrage, with the Uganda Olympic Committee and the Ugandan Athletics Federation condemning the violence. “This is totally unacceptable, and we condemn this vicious attack,” said Donald Rukare, president of the Uganda Olympic Committee. “Let’s all say NO to violence, especially against women.”
Rising Cases of Violence
Cheptegei’s assault is part of a worrying trend of violence against women in Kenya. A 2023 report by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics revealed that 34% of women have experienced physical violence since the age of 15, with married women more likely to be victims. The incident also echoes the tragic deaths of athletes Damaris Mutua and Agnes Tirop, both of whom were killed by their partners in recent years.
Cheptegei remains in critical condition as medical teams work tirelessly to save her life.
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