Image: Courtesy
The family of the deceased Rwandese coach Gervais Hakizamana, who tragically died alongside world marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum, has rejected the autopsy report, citing inconsistencies.
The fatal road accident occurred on February 11 in the Kaptagat area along the Elgeyo Marakwet-Ravine road.
Government pathologist Benson Macharia's report indicated that Hakizamana died from intracranial bleeding due to a head injury, consistent with the police accident report.
However, the family disputes the findings, claiming that the nature and degree of the injuries are incongruent with their kin's initial appearance after the tragedy.
Sandrine Hakizamana, the coach's niece, expressed the family's dissatisfaction, stating, "When we viewed him, he did not have fractures at all. We, therefore, reject this report."
The family is now urging the government to launch a comprehensive investigation.
Earlier, the family had withheld the report from the public, and now, they seek a thorough government probe.
The body of Hakizamana is scheduled to be airlifted to Rwanda, where funeral arrangements include a vigil at his sister’s home in Masaka, Kicukiro District, and a church service at Kabuga Catholic Church before interment at Rusororo cemetery on February 21.
Born in Nyaruguru District, Southern Province, Hakizamana had a significant impact on Rwandan athletics as both an athlete and a coach.
Meanwhile, Kiptum's interment is scheduled for February 24, with ongoing preparations witnessed at the homestead on Friday.
