The burial arrangements for the late world marathon record holder, Kelvin Kiptum, have been adjusted, with the funeral date moved up from Saturday, February 24 to Friday, February 23.
A family spokesperson addressed the press, stating that the decision to change the burial date was made in consideration of President William Ruto’s schedule.
While State House Nairobi has yet to confirm the President’s commitments, Kiptum’s family indicated that the adjustment was necessary due to President Ruto’s anticipated trip to Namibia the following day.
Explaining the rationale behind the change, the spokesperson clarified, “It is a state function. The President will be in attendance on Friday so the burial was moved up from 24th to 23rd.” She further added, “The President will be available on Friday before flying out to Namibia.”
The funeral adjustment coincides with Namibia’s own arrangements for the late President Hage Geingob, who passed away on February 4. Namibia’s President Nangolo Mbumba had announced that Geingob would be laid to rest on February 24.
In response to Geingob’s death, President Ruto expressed condolences to the late president’s family and praised Geingob as a distinguished leader who championed African unity and global representation for the continent. Ruto shared these sentiments on his social media platforms, honoring Geingob’s legacy and extending support to the people of Namibia during their time of mourning.
During an interdenominational church service in Kakamega County on February 4, President Ruto announced that Kenya would fly all its flags at half-mast as a gesture of solidarity with Namibia following Geingob’s passing.
