Leaders from across the political spectrum gathered to honor the late Baringo Senator William Cheptumo, celebrating him as a peacemaker and patriot. President Ruto and other dignitaries emphasized his significant role in enhancing peace and stability in his region. Cheptumo’s character and commitment to service were widely recognized, leaving a lasting legacy in Kenyan politics.
Leaders from various political factions gathered to honor the late Baringo Senator William Cheptumo, recognizing him as a dedicated peacemaker and patriot. The poignant farewell took place at Arap Moi Secondary School in Bartabwa, Baringo County, where many mourners paid their respects to a politician noted for his lengthy service and achievements, including three terms as a Member of Parliament before transitioning to the Senate.
Prominent figures, including President William Ruto and legislative leaders, called for others to emulate Senator Cheptumo’s exemplary conduct, devoid of political hostility. President Ruto highlighted Cheptumo’s commitment to peace, emphasizing his significant contributions to reducing insecurity in Kerio Valley by 70 percent through effective leadership and collaboration.
President Ruto also praised Cheptumo’s integrity, noting his successful electoral history, which testified to his admirable character. He recalled Cheptumo’s decisive actions to enhance regional security by deploying security personnel for peacekeeping efforts shortly after his election.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi honored Cheptumo as a symbol of humility, asserting the region’s fortune in having such influential leaders. Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetangula reminisced about Cheptumo’s remarkable parliamentary record, stating he never required admonishment during his15 years in office.
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi commemorated the late senator as a peace ambassador, stating that the nation has lost a valuable individual. Senator Ledama Ole Kina remarked on Cheptumo’s contributions to his constituents and emphasized the necessity for an efficient transition process in the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to fill the vacuum left by his passing.
Both Senate Majority Leader Haron Cheruiyot and National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichungwa characterized Cheptumo as a respectful, humble, and dedicated public servant. They commended President Ruto for his outreach to dissenting voices, urging leaders and citizens alike to follow his example in promoting unity and cooperation within the country.
The leaders expressed their endorsement of a well-balanced government aimed at stabilizing the nation, with MP Joseph Makilap advocating for the timely introduction of the NADCO report in Parliament for legislation and formal acknowledgment of political coalitions. Cheptumo leaves behind a legacy encompassing his wife, Hannah Wendot Cheptumo, and their three children: Anthony Kipchirchir, Jean Jeptoo, and Andrew Rotich.
A lawyer by profession, Cheptumo held positions at Kenya Commercial Bank and the Central Bank of Kenya prior to establishing his private legal practice in 2005. His political career included serving as Assistant Minister for Justice, National Cohesion, and Constitutional Affairs from 2007 to 2013, following his first electoral win in 2007.
The passing of Senator William Cheptumo elicited heartfelt tributes from numerous political leaders, who recognized his steadfast commitment to peace and community service. His legacy as a principled politician will be remembered, characterized by a dedication to both regional security and legislative integrity. Cheptumo’s contributions set a precedent in political conduct that many hope will inspire future leadership in Kenya.
Original Source: www.kenyanews.go.ke
