Philemon Sang, the talented artist who created the sculptures of President William Ruto and world champion Faith Kipyegon, is nursing serious injuries after he was allegedly beaten by a group of goons while trying to meet the Head of State.
Speaking to Newshub.co.ke, Sang’s father, Thomas Mitei, shared the painful story of how his son’s attempt to reach out to the local MP for help in presenting the sculptures to President Ruto turned into a nightmare.
According to Mitei, Sang, who comes from Kaplelach village in Nyota Ward, had travelled to Sirikwa on Sunday, October 26, hoping to meet an official from the Office of the President ahead of Ruto’s scheduled visit the following day.
The visit was meant to be an opportunity for Sang to personally present his artistic work as a sign of admiration and respect for the President.
However, things took a tragic turn. Mitei explained that his son was carrying with him a sculpture of President Ruto — a gesture of loyalty and appreciation.
Upon arrival, Sang was unexpectedly attacked by a group of goons who were reportedly linked to the area MP.
The motive behind the attack remains unclear, but witnesses claim it appeared to be politically motivated.
In a shocking twist, Mitei said the MP later appeared to intervene and instructed his aides to escort Sang to a vehicle, allegedly to take him to safety.
Unbeknownst to Sang, it was a trap. The car reportedly diverted its route and stopped in a maize plantation, where the goons allegedly assaulted him for a second time, leaving him badly injured and in pain.
Sang was later rescued and rushed to Keringet Hospital, where he was treated for multiple injuries. He has since been discharged and is currently recovering at his home.
A Self-Trained Artist With Passion
According to his father, Philemon Sang is a gifted self-taught sculptor and carpenter who has always used art to express his admiration for public figures. Mitei said this was not the first time his son had created a sculpture for President Ruto. In fact, he had previously made one when Ruto served as Deputy President, a gesture that earned him Ksh 50,000 as appreciation. The support, Mitei said, encouraged his son to keep improving his craft and inspired him to pursue art more seriously.
Aside from the President, Sang has also created artworks for other leaders, including Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika, showcasing his versatility and growing recognition in Kenya’s art scene.
Sang first became a public figure after his sculpture of celebrated Kenyan athlete Faith Kipyegon went viral online.
The piece, which he made after Kipyegon’s remarkable victory at the Paris 2024 Olympics, attracted mixed reactions from the public.
While some Kenyans mocked the sculpture’s appearance, others praised Sang’s effort to honor one of Kenya’s most successful sportswomen.
The sculpture was initially displayed in Eldoret, where it drew attention from across the country. However, due to widespread criticism and online debate over its quality, it was eventually taken down.
Despite the setback and the recent brutal attack, Sang’s story reflects the struggles faced by many young Kenyan artists trying to gain recognition and support for their work.
His father expressed hope that President Ruto and other leaders would take notice of his son’s passion and offer him the encouragement he needs to continue pursuing his artistic dreams safely and with dignity.
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