Five Years On, Agnes Tirop’s Hometown Demands Justice in Powerful Memorial Run
The 10km route was symbolic, representing the distance Tirop made history in by setting the women-only world record in 2021 – just weeks before her life was tragically cut short at age 25.
By James Gitaka
Hundreds of people gathered in the high-altitude town of Iten on Saturday 19th July 2025, to commemorate the life and legacy of celebrated long-distance runner Agnes Tirop, who was brutally murdered five years ago.
The community came together for a 10-kilometer memorial run organized by End Femicide Kenya, demanding justice for Tirop and highlighting the protracted court delays and continued impunity in her murder case.
The 10km route was symbolic, representing the distance Tirop made history in by setting the women-only world record in 2021 – just weeks before her life was tragically cut short at age 25. Tirop was found murdered in her home in Iten in October 2021, with multiple stab wounds.
Her husband and prime suspect, Ibrahim Rotich, was arrested but later released on bail. He has since disappeared, failing to appear in court, and his current whereabouts are unknown.
The memorial run was attended by professional athletes, residents, activists, women’s rights advocates, and elected leaders, who echoed the community’s determination to demand justice for Tirop.
Sharon Kiptoo of End Femicide Kenya, who led the event, said, “She died a hero, but we are still fighting for justice. Agnes was not just a global athlete – she was a beacon of hope for girls across Kenya. But five years later, her family still waits, the country still waits, for accountability.”
Tirop’s family, still visibly heartbroken, stood in front of a crowd that had gathered not just to remember but to demand action. Her father said, “She was our pride, our breadwinner. Her murder shattered our family. We are raising her children without support, while the man accused of killing her is free. We call on the government and Chief Justice Martha Koome – do not let this case be forgotten.”
The event also saw participation from political leaders, who called for reform and condemned the justice system’s failure in handling Tirop’s case. Nominated MCA Caroline Cherono said, “Femicide must be treated as a national emergency. No family should endure what the Tirops have. Our systems are broken, and Parliament must act.”
Fellow MCA and memorial run organizer Hon Mercy Jepkurui called for legislative reforms and the appointment of more judges and prosecutors, stating, “Our GBV laws are weak, outdated, and poorly enforced. We must strengthen them, fund our courts, and build a system that truly protects women.”
The memorial run was a powerful tribute to Tirop’s legacy and a call to action to end femicide in Kenya. According to End Femicide Kenya, over 200 women have been murdered in gender-related killings in the past five years, with many more cases of domestic violence remaining unresolved or never making it to court.
Kiptoo said, “Agnes is the face of thousands. Her death may have made headlines, but femicide is happening every day across Kenya – in silence, without justice.”
The event concluded with a candlelight vigil, prayer service, and a tribute display featuring Tirop’s medals, photos, and race footage.
Participants wore shirts emblazoned with “Justice for Agnes Tirop” and “End Femicide Now.” As the sun dipped below the horizon, Iten’s red hills bore witness to a powerful message: Agnes Tirop’s story is not over.
Her family, community, and fellow Kenyans vowed to keep fighting until justice is delivered – not just for Agnes, but for all victims of gender-based violence. Tirop’s mother said, “We will not rest. For Agnes, and for all our daughters – we will keep fighting.”
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