William Kipkorir Cheptumo, the Baringo Senator died on Saturday at 57.
After three terms as Baringo North MP, he defeated Gideon Moi in the 2022 senatorial race with 141,777 votes, nearly twice Moi’s 71,408. This victory broke the Moi family’s grip on Baringo politics. Reports suggest the Azimio coalition leader never publicly conceded.
Cheptumo worked tirelessly to address insecurity in Baringo and the North Rift, regions plagued by banditry and cattle rustling. His efforts earned him the chairmanship of the Senate National Security, Defence, and Foreign Relations Committee. He later pushed to declare cattle rustling a national disaster.
In January 2023, he adopted a girl orphaned by bandit attacks. Throughout his career, he promoted peace among the Pokot, Illchamus, Tugen, and Endorois communities.
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi described him as a dedicated leader. From 2008 to 2022, he chaired key parliamentary committees, including Delegated Legislation and Justice and Legal Affairs. He also served as an assistant minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs.
Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang’ called Cheptumo soft-spoken but firm on principles. Kiambu Senator Karungo Thang’wa praised his debating skills and hospitality. Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu described him as mature and level-headed.
Cheptumo studied law at the University of Nairobi and the Kenya School of Law. He worked as a legal officer before founding Cheptumo and Company Advocates in 1998.
His political career began in 2007 under ODM. He later joined William Ruto’s United Republican Party and, in 2022, the United Democratic Alliance, winning the senatorial seat.
In his last social media post, he wished Raila Odinga success in the African Union chair election.
Cheptumo leaves behind a legacy of leadership and service. Aslo , he ended the Moi family’s political dominance in the county.
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