Outrage Over Delayed Justice: Family and Athletes Demand Action in Agnes Tirop Murder Case
Their anger was directed at the court and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), urging swift action in the murder case.
Marathoner Mildred Cherop addresses the court, urging urgent action in Tirop’s case.
By Gidion Ngeno
On Thursday, family and friends of the late Agnes Tirop gathered at the High Court in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, demanding justice and expressing deep frustration over the slow pace of the legal process.
Their anger was directed at the court and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), urging swift action in the murder case.
Speaking to Hubz Media, Vincent Tirop, father of the deceased athlete, called on the government to provide immediate protection to the family, citing fears for their safety.
“We want the government, led by the president, to assign enough security officers to protect us until the perpetrator is arrested,” he pleaded.
However, tensions escalated further when the court unexpectedly adjourned the scheduled hearing without offering any explanation. This move triggered condemnation from fellow athletes and supporters present at the court.
Miltrade Cherop, one of the athletes in attendance, criticized the continued delays and highlighted the rising cases of femicide in Kenya.
“We are here to condemn the adjournment. We need justice for Tirop. Every year, female athletes are being killed. Let Tirop’s case be the one that sets a precedent and deters future crimes. What is happening is unacceptable,” she said.
Agnes Tirop was tragically murdered in October 2021 in Iten, Elgeyo Marakwet County. Her husband, Ibrahim Rotich, is the prime suspect.
According to witnesses and her sister, Everlyne Jepngetich, Rotich had a history of violence against Tirop, including physical abuse and financial disputes. Tirop had previously confided in friends that Rotich had threatened her life.
In a controversial decision, the court granted Rotich bond in 2023, setting it at KSh 400,000 with two similar sureties, or a cash bail of KSh 500,000, after his second application.
The case was scheduled to be heard on June 12, 2025, but was adjourned by Justice Robert Wananda. The delay has sparked national outrage, particularly among athletes, and raised serious concerns over the safety and rights of women across the country.
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