NAIROBI, Kenya – Baringo Senator William Cheptumo has passed away at the age of 58 while receiving treatment at Nairobi Hospital.
His family confirmed that he had been battling an illness for some time.
Though he was discharged last week, his condition worsened, leading to his readmission and subsequent demise on Sunday.
Senator William Cheptumo was a progressive leader who was dedicated to public service. He was vocal, hardworking and a tireless champion for the transformation of Baringo. The Cheptumo family, friends and the people of Baringo County are in our thoughts and prayers. Rest In…
A Legal Mind Turned Political Leader
Born in 1967, Cheptumo’s journey to politics was paved with years of legal expertise.
He earned a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Nairobi (1988–1991) and later pursued a postgraduate diploma at the Kenya School of Law.
His legal career took him through various institutions, including the Industrial and Commercial Development Corporation (1993–1995) and the Central Bank of Kenya (1995–1998), before he established his own firm, Cheptumo and Company Advocates.
His transition into politics saw him serve as Baringo North MP for 14 years (2008–2022) before clinching the Senate seat in 2022 under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
He defeated then-incumbent Gideon Moi, securing 141,777 votes against Moi’s 71,408.
On behalf of the people of Busia County, we are deeply saddened by the untimely passing of Hon. William Kipkorir Cheptumo, Senator of Baringo County. His unwavering dedication to public service, exemplary leadership, and commitment to devolution and the people of Baringo will…
A Legacy in Governance and Public Service
Cheptumo’s influence extended beyond his constituency. He played a pivotal role in Kenya’s legislative landscape, serving in multiple parliamentary committees, including:
- Chairperson, Committee on Delegated Legislation (11th Parliament)
- Chairperson, Departmental Committee on Justice and Legal Affairs (12th Parliament)
- Chairperson, Senate National Security, Defense, and Foreign Relations Committee
His tenure in government also included serving as an executive in the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs (2008–2013), where he contributed to key legal and policy reforms.
His Last Public Statement: A Tribute to Raila Odinga
Just days before his passing, Cheptumo publicly backed Raila Odinga in his bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship, calling him “a well-crafted democrat” and a “seasoned statesman with a Pan-African spirit.”
However, Odinga lost in a heated contest, with Djibouti’s Mahmoud Ali Youssouf securing victory in the seventh round of voting.
As Kenya mourns the loss of a seasoned leader, Cheptumo’s contributions to governance and public service will remain a lasting legacy.
