The body of Ugandan Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei, who died after allegedly being set on fire by her ex-partner in neighbouring Kenya, arrived in her rural hometown in eastern Uganda on Friday afternoon, a district official said.
The casket containing the remains of Cheptegei wrapped in Ugandan flag colours of black, yellow, and red was received by family members, the Uganda Athletics Federation, and government officials at the Kenya-Urugua border town of Suam in a sombre mood, Gertrude Chemitai, Bukwo district information officer, told Xinhua by telephone.
She said Cheptegei’s body was driven around Bukwo town for the local people and population to celebrate her life.
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According to reports, she was attacked by her former boyfriend in the Kenyan town of Trans Nzoia.
“The mood is very sad and grieving. The whole area is full of tears for the lost athlete,” said Chemitai.
Chemitai said Rebecca Cheptegei will be laid to rest on Saturday at her ancestral village in Kapsiywo, Bukwo sub-county.
“Today she will be taken to the district council hall for the councillors to pay last respect. Afterwards, the body will be taken to the Ananang playground for the funeral program. She will then be taken to her final resting place at Kapsiywoo village for burial,” said Chemitai.
Cheptegei, 33, competed in the marathon at the 2024 Paris Olympics, finishing 44th. She is also remembered for winning gold at the 2022 World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in Chiang Mai, Thailand. ■
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