Kelvin Kiptum's Burial Date Changed After Clashing With Ruto's Namibia Trip

A family spokesperson explained that the changes were in adherence to President William Ruto's calendar.

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Feb 20, 2024 - 12:49
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Kelvin Kiptum's Burial Date Changed After Clashing With Ruto's Namibia Trip
Collage of the late Kelvin Kiptum and President William Ruto. /VIRAL TEA KE

The burial date of the late world marathon record holder, Kelvin Kiptum has been moved up from Saturday, February 24 to Friday, February 23.

Speaking to the press, a family spokesperson explained that the changes were in adherence to President William Ruto's calendar.

Kiptum's family indicated that the changes were necessitated by President Ruto's trip to Namibia the following day, although State House is yet to confirm this.

"It is a state function. The President will be in attendance on Friday so the burial was moved up from 24th to 23rd," she explained.

Collage of the late Namibia President Hage Geingob and Kenya President William Ruto. /FACEBOOK.PCS

"The President will be available on Friday before flying out to Namibia."

Namibia's President Nangolo Mbumba had announced that his predecessor Hage Geingob would be laid to rest on February 24, following his death on February 4. 

In reaction to the news of Geingob's demise, Ruto had condoled the late president's family for their loss while celebrating Geingob as a distinguished leader who served with diligence.

"He was a believer of a unified Africa and strongly promoted the continent’s voice and visibility at the global arena," he wrote on his social media pages, adding "May God give the people of Namibia strength and courage during this difficult period."

Speaking during an interdenominational church service at the Approved School Grounds in Kakamega County on Sunday, February 4, the Head of State revealed that Kenya would fly all its flags at half mast in solidarity with the people of Namibia following Geingob's death.

According to Ruto, state officials were waiting to be fully updated on the developments before announcing when Kenya's mourning period would begin and conclude. Neither he nor the officials had yet to issue an update on this.

Nonetheless, President Ruto has been leading from the forefront in ensuring that the late Kiptum is accorded a befitting sendoff following his death in a tragic road accident on Sunday, February 11.

“He was only 24 yet, as a hero, triumphed in Valencia, Chicago, London and in other top competitions. Kiptum was our future,” he eulogised moments after Kenya received news of the athlete's untimely death.

On Thursday, February 15, he sent experts to the home of the late world marathon record holder, Kelvin Kiptum with specific instructions to build a three-bedroomed house in less than one week, as of now.

Ongoing construction works on the late Kelvin Kiptum's three-bedroom house. /X

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