The High Court has sentenced Policewoman Lilian Biwott to 35 years in prison for the murder of her husband, Victor Kipchumba, whom she fatally shot with 12 bullets in their home.
Justice Reuben Nyakundi, presiding over the case, described the act as brutal and barbaric, highlighting it as part of the rising incidences of domestic violence, gender-based violence, and femicide. He emphasized that Biwott, as a trained police officer, had alternatives to resolve the situation without resorting to deadly force.
“The firearm issued to you by the government was never intended for use against your husband,” said Justice Nyakundi, adding that separation or divorce were viable options.
Despite claims that Biwott had responded to her husband’s threats against their children, the court found she had sufficient time to de-escalate the situation using other means. Evidence showed she fired 12 bullets, six of which struck vital organs, making the act premeditated and malicious.
“This was a deliberate and calculated act of murder, carried out with brutality and malice aforethought,” the judge stated.
Justice Nyakundi criticized Biwott’s failure to provide the court with compelling reasons for her actions, dismissing claims of self-defense or provocation. He noted that forensic evidence and witness testimony outweighed any mitigating circumstances, including her account of living in an abusive marriage.
The judge further condemned Biwott’s attempt to conceal evidence, which he said reinforced the conclusion that the act was premeditated. He reminded her of the far-reaching consequences of her actions, particularly on her children, who are now left orphaned.
“Domestic disputes should never escalate to murder. There are lawful and peaceful ways to resolve such conflicts,” said Nyakundi, adding that Biwott’s training and understanding of the law should have guided her actions.
The court also noted that Biwott had left her workplace and traveled to their home, giving her ample time to reflect before committing the crime. Her defence of enduring marital abuse did not excuse her excessive use of force.
Biwott was accused of killing her husband on the night of October 9, 2024, at their rental home along the Eldoret-Iten highway in Uasin Gishu County. She denied the charges but was found guilty, with the judge ruling that her actions were intentional and avoidable.
