NAIROBI, Kenya — A housemate of an LGBTQ+ activist in Kenya has been sentenced to 50 years in prison on Monday for the murder of Edwin Chiloba. Chiloba’s remains were discovered in a metal box nearly two years ago, sparking international concern regarding the treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals in Kenya.

The High Court in Eldoret convicted Jacktone Odhiambo for the murder that took place in January 2023, a case that has brought attention to the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community in a country where conservative views prevail. President William Ruto has described gay rights as a non-issue, and engaging in sexual relations between men is illegal.

Edwin Chiloba was known for his activism within Kenya’s LGBTQ+ community, advocating against discrimination. Despite DNA evidence linking Odhiambo to the crime scene, he denied involvement in the murder of his housemate. The DNA findings suggested an intimate relationship between the two men, yet the court did not determine a motive for the crime.

Testimonies presented during the trial included reports from witnesses who stated they heard an argument between the two housemates and later observed Odhiambo handling the metal box that contained Chiloba’s body. Justice Reuben Nyakundi remarked that the murder appeared premeditated, noting that Odhiambo had waited for their return from a nightclub to carry out the act. Additionally, injuries found on Chiloba’s hands indicated he had tried to defend himself.

The LGBTQ+ community has expressed concerns over discrimination and violence in Kenya; however, law enforcement has dismissed the notion that the murder was motivated by hate.