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Baringo Senator William Kipkorir Cheptumo dies at 57

Baringo Senator William Cheptumo.

Photo credit: File| Nation Media Group

By  Florah Koech

Correspondent

Nation Media Group

Baringo Senator William Kipkorir Cheptumo has died aged 57, Senate Speaker Amason Kingi has confirmed.

Mr Kingi said the first-time United Democratic Movement (UDA) lawmaker, who was battling an undisclosed health condition, passed on while undergoing treatment at Nairobi Hospital on Saturday night.

“Senator Cheptumo was a dedicated leader, who took up his legislative responsibilities with unmatched zeal and selflessly articulated the interests of the people of Baringo and Kenyans at large,” the speaker said.

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“The Senate of Kenya has lost a leader who firmly believed in Devolution and used every opportunity to advance its cause and the welfare of Kenyans. I join his family, the people of Baringo County and Kenyans, in mourning a great leader and pray that God grants us all grace and fortitude to bear this monumental loss.”

The outspoken senator has been unwell and was discharged from hospital on February 9 to recuperate at home, according to his colleagues Kiborek Reuben (Mogotio) and Jackson Kosgei (nominated).

“Thank you Hon Bishop Emeritus Dr Jackson Kosgei, Hon. Kiborek Reuben together with all our leaders, and the great people of Baringo for your endless prayers. I am fairing on well at home. God is the Greatest Healer of all times,” the senator posted on his Facebook page on February 11.

Two days ago, the senator was among Kenyan leaders who wished Raila Odinga success in his quest to become the African Union Commission chairperson.

“Raila Odinga is undoubtedly the most qualified candidate for the African Union Commission chairmanship. He is a well-crafted democrat with a seasoned experience on matters of the Africa continent,” the MP said.

“His unrelenting Panafrican spirit presents him as a statesman with a bold African quest for a progressive Africa. His victory will be a win for Kenya and Africa at large. Wishing you the very best Baba. Let's win together. Let's bring it home together.”

President William Ruto on Sunday led other leaders in mourning the death of Mr Cheptumo, saying he was “a progressive leader who was dedicated to public service”.

“He was vocal, hardworking and a tireless champion for the transformation of Baringo. The Cheptumo family, friends and the people of Baringo County are in our thoughts and prayers,” Dr Ruto said.