Rwandan athlete Siragi Rubayita has tragically been found dead at a renowned training center in western Kenya, leading to the arrest of two Kenyan athletes. The incident, which local media have labeled a “love triangle,” has left the sports community in shock.
The 34-year-old Rubayita had been training in Iten, a town known for its excellent training facilities, ahead of an upcoming competition in Italy. His family claims that he was killed in a “senseless act of violence” involving a fellow athlete and his girlfriend, who had invited Rubayita to their home on the night before his departure.
The family is now demanding “truth and justice” for their son, who was devoted to pursuing his passion for running and sports excellence. Police investigating the case have identified a male and a female Kenyan athlete as the main suspects.
Nasra Bishumba, Rubayita’s sister, spoke to the BBC and expressed gratitude to Rubayita’s coaches in Iten, who were critical in locating her brother. His roommate had become concerned when Rubayita failed to return home, prompting the coaches to initiate a search effort. The swift action ultimately led to the arrest of the two suspects.
Local reports suggest that the male Kenyan athlete was dissatisfied with the relationship between Rubayita and the female Kenyan athlete, leading to a possible motive for the crime. A post-mortem examination is scheduled to shed more light on the circumstances surrounding Rubayita’s untimely death.
The family of the deceased has dispatched a team to Iten to accompany Rubayita’s body back to Kigali, where they plan to honor him for his exceptional talent and dedication to running. Rwanda’s High Commission in Kenya has also expressed its support, with a diplomat from the commission on the ground in Iten to closely monitor the case.
Throughout his career, Rubayita proudly represented Rwanda in various international competitions held in Africa and Europe. In June, he finished 13th in the Kigali International Peace Marathon, showcasing his talent and commitment to the sport.
The news of Rubayita’s death has cast a somber shadow over the running community, both in Rwanda and Kenya. It serves as a reminder of the need to address conflicts and grievances in a peaceful manner, with violence having no place in sport or any other aspect of life.
The investigation into Rubayita’s death is ongoing, and authorities are committed to uncovering the truth behind this tragic event. As the sports world mourns the loss of a talented runner, the hope remains that justice will prevail and his family will find solace in knowing that their son’s legacy will be remembered.
In memory of Siragi Rubayita, fellow athletes and sports enthusiasts from across Africa and beyond are joining forces to commemorate his passion and dedication to running, ensuring that his spirit will continue to inspire future generations of athletes.
