Kiptum’s Burial Date Brought Forward Over Ruto’s Namibia Trip
The interment for Kelvin Kiptum, the record holder for the marathon, has been rescheduled from Saturday to Friday, February 23rd.
Providing clarification on the decision, a representative for the family stated that the move was made to synchronize with the schedule of President William Ruto.
Kiptum’s family mentioned that the President was scheduled to travel to Namibia on Saturday, although State House had not officially confirmed the information.
“It will be a State function and the President will be in attendance. That is why the burial date has been moved,” she explained.
“The President will be available on Friday before flying out to Namibia.”
Namibia’s President Nangolo Mbumba declared that the late Hage Geingob, his predecessor, would be buried on February 24 after passing away on February 4.
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President William Ruto expressed his condolences for the departed Namibian president, highlighting him as a leader who advocated for African unity and worked towards enhancing the continent’s global influence.
He also mentioned that Kenya would express mourning for Geingob by lowering flags to half-mast.
From the very beginning, President William Ruto has been committed to organizing a fitting farewell for Kiptum, who tragically lost his life in a road accident on Monday, February 12.
Ruto expressed sorrow over Kiptum’s passing, describing him as an exceptional athlete who had made a lasting impact on the global stage.
“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.
He went on to honor Kiptum’s final request by making sure that a home was built for his family.
Kiptum’s Burial Date Brought Forward Over Ruto’s Namibia Trip