Baringo: A section of residents from Baringo County have come out to mourn their Senator, William Cheptumo, who passed away at a Nairobi hospital after an illness. Led by former Kabartonjo Ward Member of County Assembly (MCA) James Cheptoo, the late Cheptumo, who served as a Member of Parliament for Baringo North for 15 years and senator for three years, has left an indelible mark that is hard to fill.
According to Kenya News Agency, Cheptoo, who spoke during a presser in Kabarnet town, recalled the deeds of the legislator who championed the construction of several institutions and churches within the region, which he said made him create a strong bond with the electorates. ‘He was from the African Inland Church (AIC) by faith but he contributed heavily to the construction of different churches within the county and beyond,’ the former MCA said.
He stated that through his leadership, Baringo County managed to get a national school, Ossen Girls, which was elevated two years ago and is leading in the county in performance. Cheptoo, who was accompanied by Former MCAs Solomon Chemjor (Kapropita) and Richard Kampala (Saimo Soi), encouraged the family of the late senator as well as all county residents to stay strong during this difficult moment.
The MCA stated that plans are underway to open condolence books in strategic locations, including the governor’s office, county assembly and county commissioner’s offices, for those who wish to express their sympathy and support to the family. Kampala, in his remarks, remembered Cheptumo as a dedicated leader who went out of his way to restore peace in the volatile areas of Baringo North and South sub-counties, adding that he was also instrumental in the creation of more administrative units in the area.
Kenya National Union of Teachers, Baringo Branch Treasurer Elizabeth Keitany, eulogised Cheptumo as a father figure known for his wise counsel and the ability to support young and experienced leaders from the county irrespective of their political affiliations. She stated that the senator was also available to support the needy in society, even during the time he was bedridden in the hospital.
The first pioneer MCA for Kapropita ward, who sent the condolences of his family, took the opportunity to discourage those who had started early campaigns for the seat, noting that it is against the Kalenjin culture to engage in such activities in times of grief. He urged leaders from the county to emulate the legacy of the senator, who was humble to the core and advocated for the unity of all county leaders.