In a surprising turn of events, the burial arrangements for the departed marathon king, Kelvin Kiptum, have been shrouded in suspense as the scheduled date transforms, casting shadows of intrigue and urgency.
Originally slated for Saturday, February 24, the solemn occasion now looms on February 23, an abrupt modification attributed to a pivotal presence—H.E. President William Ruto.
The decision, veiled in mystery, unfolds against the backdrop of Kiptum’s impending state honours as it prepares for his final rest in the hushed embrace of his native home in Chepkorioon.
The orchestrators behind this enigmatic maneuver cite the imperative attendance of President Ruto, intertwining the threads of state protocol with the ceremonial farewell to a world record holder.
Reports from various outlets suggest that President Ruto’s initial plan to pay respects to Kiptum faced a formidable clash with the state funeral of Namibia’s departed president, Hage Geingob. The Namibian leader’s final rites, scheduled for February 24, precede his interment on Sunday, February 25, creating a dilemma for the attending dignitaries, particularly President Ruto.
“Kiptum’s burial will be a state event and the president will be in attendance. However, the date was changed from February 24 to 23 because the president will be available on that day. On Saturday, he will be flying to Namibia to attend their late president’s funeral.”
A spokesperson for the grieving family unraveled the enigma, revealed
Amidst this cryptic backdrop, the poignant narrative of Kiptum’s untimely demise resonates. A fatal road accident claimed not only the 24-year-old marathon prodigy but also his coach, Gervais Hakizimana, on that fateful Sunday night, February 11, near Eldoret.
As the world of athletics reels from the shock, Kiptum’s unfulfilled pursuit of breaking the two-hour marathon barrier echoes, leaving a void reminiscent of the lost potential embodied by the likes of Samwel Wanjiru.
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