This story contains references to and graphic descriptions of domestic violence.
Ugandan Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei has died at a Kenyan hospital where she was being treated after 80 per cent of her body was burned in an alleged attack by her partner.
The country's cabinet secretary for sports said authorities must do more to combat gender-based violence.
Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret city confirmed Cheptegei's death on Thursday.
Owen Menach, a spokesperson from the hospital told Reuters the long-distance runner, 33, died early in the morning after her organs failed.
She had been fully sedated on admission to the hospital.
Her partner had allegedly poured petrol on her and set it alight.
Cheptegei competed in the women's marathon at the Paris Olympics less than a month before the alleged attack. She finished in 44th place.
Her father, Joseph Cheptegei, told journalists at the hospital he had lost a daughter who was "very supportive" and he hoped to get justice.
Trans Nzoia County police commander Jeremiah ole Kosiom said on Monday that Cheptegei's partner allegedly attacked her during a disagreement on Sunday.
He was also burned and was being treated at the same hospital.
Menach said he was still in the intensive care unit with burns over 30 per cent of his body but was "improving and stable".
Cheptegei's parents said their daughter bought land in Trans Nzoia to be near the county's many athletic training centres.
A report filed by the local chief said the two were heard fighting over the land where her house was built before the alleged attack.
'We need to do more to combat gender-based violence'
The Uganda Athletics Federation wrote on the social platform X: "We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei, early this morning who tragically fell victim to domestic violence.
"As a federation, we condemn such acts and call for justice. May her soul rest in peace."
Uganda Olympic Committee president Donald Rukare called the alleged attack "a cowardly and senseless act that has led to the loss of a great athlete".
Kenya's cabinet secretary for sports, Kipchumba Murkomen, said the government would ensure justice for the victim.
"This tragedy is a stark reminder that we must do more to combat gender-based violence in our society, which in recent years has reared its ugly head in elite sporting circles," he wrote in a statement.
If you or someone you know is impacted by family and domestic violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732, or visit . In an emergency, call 000.
