Tragic end for Olympic marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei: A shocking story of domestic violence

The life of Olympic marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei ended tragically when her ex-boyfriend Dickson Ndiema Marangach set her on fire in western Kenya on September 1. The attack was premeditated; Marangach borrowed a lighter under the pretext of an emergency.

Although Cheptegei reported the threats and abuse she faced to the police on multiple occasions, the authorities failed to take effective action, ultimately leading to her untimely death. Rebecca's family and fellow athletes are devastated, pointing to a deeper systemic failure to protect women from domestic violence.

Cheptegei's murder highlights the dark side of success for female athletes in Kenya and shines a light on the widespread problem of gender-based violence in the country. Despite government assurances, activists argue that much more needs to be done to protect women. Her death has sparked calls for greater accountability and protections.

(With contributions from agencies.)