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Who is Rerimoi Barsitei? The Kenyan athlete serving 80-year jail term in Mexico
04th July, 2026 09:34 AM
Former Kenyan long-distance runner and 2020 Culiacan Marathon champion Rerimoi Barsitei is serving an 80-year prison sentence in Mexico over reported criminal offences.
Barsitei, who hails from Keturwo in Barwessa Ward, Baringo County, moved to Mexico in 2015 in pursuit of athletics opportunities and eventually built a life there.
During his time in the country, he established himself as a respected distance runner, highlighted by his victory in the 2020 Culiacan Marathon.
Dramatic turn
However, his life took a dramatic turn in February 2021 when Mexican authorities arrested him during an operation at his residence.
According to Barsitei, several Mexican athletes he had hosted at his home were also detained. Authorities later linked some of the individuals to criminal activities, leading to charges against the Kenyan athlete.
Despite receiving an 80-year prison sentence, Barsitei insists he is innocent. He maintains that he had no knowledge of any criminal activities involving the people he accommodated and says he simply offered them a place to stay.
Based on reports from local media, the former athlete has now appealed to the Kenyan government and the Kenyan mission through the Embassy of Kenya in Washington, D.C., requesting urgent diplomatic intervention to help review his case.
Barsitei also claims that he was denied a fair trial.
According to his account, he was not provided with legal representation and had no interpreter throughout the Spanish court proceedings, leaving him unable to understand the charges and legal process because of the language barrier.
His family in Kenya has echoed his plea, calling on the government to take up the matter with Mexican authorities. They argue that the case deserves closer scrutiny, particularly over the claims that Barsitei lacked adequate legal assistance and translation services during his trial.
Supporters have also joined the campaign, urging Kenyan diplomatic officials to intervene and seek a review of the conviction. They hope the government can help facilitate a reassessment of the case and, if possible, secure Barsitei’s repatriation to Kenya.
The case has sparked concern among Kenyans both at home and abroad, with many calling for greater protection and legal support for citizens facing criminal proceedings in foreign countries. It has also highlighted the challenges that can arise when language barriers and limited access to legal representation affect the rights of foreign nationals in overseas justice systems.
