Lang'ata Member of Parliament (MP) Phelix Odiwuor alias Jalang'o has urged the government to provide top athletes with VIP treatment and enhanced security following the tragic death of world marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum.
Kiptum lost his life in a horrific road accident on Sunday night along the Elgeyo Marakwet-Ravine road in the Kaptagat area.
Speaking in Parliament, Jalang'o also called for investigations into the circumstances surrounding Kiptum's untimely death.
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"The constituency of Lang'ata joins the family of Kelvin Kiptum in mourning. Even as we mourn the death of Kelvin, having listened to what his father said, there should be a thorough investigation into what caused the accident," Jalang'o stated.
He highlighted the tendency for athletes to be celebrated during their triumphs but overlooked when it comes to ensuring their safety and security.
"And apart from that, we need our athletes to be treated as VIPs and be given security. Our top athletes who represent us and bring the accolades home are always just celebrated and forgotten," Jalang'o added.
Kelvin Kiptum death
Kiptum died in a road accident on Sunday night February 11, 2024.
“The accident happened around 11 pm. The car had three occupants, two died on the spot while one was taken to hospital,” Elgeyo Marakwet County Commandant Peter Mulinge said.
The deceased was mourned by leaders across the political divide.
Raila Odinga, the leader of the Azimio alliance, expressed his sorrow over the passing of the world record holder for the men's marathon.
Raila said on X that the country had lost a true hero and was mourning a remarkable individual and Kenyan athletics icon.
“Devastating news as we mourn the loss of a remarkable individual, Kelvin Kiptum, World Record holder and Kenyan athletics icon. Together with his coach, they tragically passed on in an accident tonight. My deepest condolences to his loved ones, friends, and the entire athletics fraternity. Our nation grieves the profound loss of a true hero,” Raila wrote.
Athletics Kenya also mourned Kiptum’s death in a statement on social media.
“Announcement - Passing on of Kelvin Kiptum. Athletics Kenya is deeply saddened to announce the passing on of the World Marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum and his Rwandese coach Gervais Hakizimana. The two died in a road accident in the Kaptagat area along the Elgeyo Marakwet-Ravine road. Our condolences go out to their families and the entire athletics community during this difficult time,” AK said.
