President William Ruto has shared the final request made by the late Baringo Senator, William Cheptumo, who passed away recently while undergoing treatment at Nairobi Hospital.
During the burial of Cheptumo in Bartabwa, Baringo County, on Saturday, March 1, the President opened up about a heartfelt request the late senator made before his death. The request was focused on the ongoing security challenges in Baringo County.
President Ruto revealed that, shortly before his passing, Senator Cheptumo personally asked him to help restore peace in Baringo County and the broader Kerio Valley region.
He told the President that if he were to be blessed with the opportunity to become the President of Kenya, his top priority should be to end the insecurity that had long affected the area.
Recalling their conversation, President Ruto shared, “When we were together, Cheptumo said to me, ‘My brother, if God blesses you to become the next President of Kenya, we want Baringo and Kerio Valley to be a peaceful place.’”
In order to fulfill Cheptumo’s wishes, the President explained that, upon assuming office, he took immediate action to address the security situation. He deployed over 2,000 police officers and 3,000 military personnel to Baringo and the surrounding regions in a bid to restore order and bring peace to the area.
Ruto also mentioned that his administration took further steps to promote development in the region. Schools were built, and roads were constructed, contributing to the region’s economic growth, which had been hindered by a history of underdevelopment.
The President emphasized, “My greatest joy today is knowing that we have made significant progress in improving security. When I became President, I immediately sent 2,000 police officers and 3,000 soldiers to help restore peace. We also invested in building schools and roads for the community.”
President Ruto highlighted the significant improvements made, noting that more than 19 schools in the area have now reopened, which he considered a major accomplishment.
In addition, the President instructed the Interior Cabinet Secretary, Kipchumba Murkomen, to ensure that all necessary resources are utilized to maintain peace and stability in Kerio Valley, including the possible deployment of additional security forces.
In his tribute to the late Senator Cheptumo, President Ruto described him as not only a personal friend and colleague but also a dedicated and focused politician. He praised Cheptumo for his leadership and tireless efforts to bring progress to Baringo and Kerio Valley. According to Ruto, Cheptumo was a resourceful leader with a strong commitment to development and a powerful voice for the voiceless.
The President concluded his tribute by saying, “It is with great sorrow that we bid farewell to a life filled with extraordinary achievements, and the passing of Mheshimiwa marks the end of a remarkable political career. His legacy will forever be part of the transformation of Kenya.”
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