• The commission condemned the act saying it's regrettable this happened at a time when there are many unresolved murders of sexual rights advocates in the country.
• Odede further cited the killing of Sheila Lumumba, Erica Chandra and Joash Mosoti as some of those yet to be resolved.
Image: HANOUT
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights has added its voice into the brutal murder of LGBTQ activist Edwin Chiloba.
In a statement, the commission condemned the act saying it is regrettable this happened at a time there are many unresolved murders of sexual rights advocates in the country.
"The continued targeting of those perceived to be different is worrying," commission's chair Roseline Odede said.
Chiloba's lifeless body was found stashed in a metallic box along the Kipenyo-Kaptinga road, in Kapsaret, Uasin Gishu.
Odede further cited the killing of Sheila Lumumba, Erica Chandra and Joash Mosoti as some of those yet to be resolved.
She defended the group saying the right to life is "sacrosanct" hence no one should be killed on the basis of supporting or associating with the sexual minorities.
Calling on on the security conduct speedy investigations, the chairperson said this is worrying and points to a breakdown in the provision of services that guarantee the fundamental freedoms and rights.
"This is a call for justice for Chiloba and those like him, who were murdered before. The Constitution promises security of every person, and protection from all forms of violence, torture and abuse," she said.
Odede said the National Police Service should step up efforts to ensure all Kenyans are safe, and not arbitrarily attacked or targeted for their perceived beliefs or associations.
The commission has also called on anyone with information that would help in the investigation to share with the police or the KNCHR.
A prime suspect in the murder, identified as Jacktone Odhiambo, has been arrested.
The Nairobi-based freelance photographer is said to be a longtime friend of the deceased.
Police are also looking for two suspects believed to have helped load Chiloba's body in a metal box before it was dumped.
Uasin Gishu DCI boss Peter Kimulwo said after investigations, the deceased appeared to have been strangled and one eye gouged out.