President William Ruto has opened up on a single request former Baringo Senator William Cheptumo, who recently died while undergoing treatment at the Nairobi Hospital, made before his demise.
Speaking on Saturday, March 1, during Cheptumo’s burial in Bartabwa, Baringo County, the Head of State disclosed that the request was centred on ending the prevalent insecurity issues in Baringo County.
President Ruto explained that Cheptumo approached him and requested him to restore peace in Baringo and the broader Kerio Valley once he became the fifth president of Kenya.
“When we were here together, Cheptumo explained to me and told 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,” Ruto recalled.
To fulfil Cheptumo’s request, the Head of State reiterated that immediately after he became president, he dispatched about 2000 police and 3000 military officers to the region to restore peace and order.
Ruto further revealed that his administration also went ahead to construct and renovate schools and roads in Baringo as part of the measures to spur economic growth in a region that once grappled with underdevelopment.
“My happiness today is to say that we have been able to deal with the insecurity, and that is why when I became the president, I sent 2000 police and 3000 military officers; we built schools and roads,” the Head of State noted.
“But the main issue is that we have been able to bring peace in this region, and as the Member of Parliament said, more than 19 schools in this constituency have been reopened; it is a big step,” he added.
Additionally, President Ruto directed Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen to utilise all the necessary resources, including the deployment of more security personnel, to ensure peace and stability in Kerio Valley.
While mourning Cheptumo, Ruto termed the deceased as a friend and colleague who was a gentleman, a focused politician, and a passionate leader with a glowing political career.
According to the president, Cheptumo was resourceful and progressive with robust development credentials, and his powerful voice faithfully spoke for the voiceless, furthering peace and stability in Baringo and the Kerio Valley.
"Sadly, Mheshimiwa’s death brings to an end an extraordinary life, and a glowing political career, marking a lasting chapter in the transformation story of Kenya," Ruto commented.
This is What Killed Kariobangi North MCA Joel Munuve News Just In
