KHRC calls for justice following death of LGBTQ activist Edwin Chiloba
The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) has released a statement condemning the death of Edwin Chiloba, an LGBTIQ activist and model, who was brutally murdered in Kapseret, Uasin Gishu county.
According to the KHRC, Chiloba was attacked and left for dead on a village street, where he was later found by the police.
The commission has called for swift action by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to investigate the murder and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The KHRC also highlighted the growing trend of homophobic violence in Kenya, and called on activists, the media, and members of the public to stand in solidarity with the LGBTIQ community and call out the murder for what it is – a hate crime.
“The killing is reprehensible and unjust. This is a frightening crime but it is becoming common in Kenya with the recent tide in reports of threats, assault and killings of LGBTQ+ persons fueled by a culture of homophobia,” the statement read in part.
In its statement, the KHRC reminded the public that the Kenyan constitution guarantees the right to life, dignity, and freedom of expression for all citizens, regardless of gender, sex, or any other status.
The commission also appealed to media houses and the public to refrain from insensitive reporting and circulation of images or videos that may re-traumatize and distress Chiloba’s family and community.
“Let us not forget that LGBTIQ rights are HUMAN RIGHTS,” the KHRC said in its statement.
“We demand justice for Edwin Chiloba,” the statement concluded.