| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | William Cheptumo |
| Year of Birth | 1967 |
| Age | 57 (at the time of death) |
| Place of Birth | Kenya |
| Education | Bachelor of Laws (University of Nairobi), Postgraduate Diploma (Kenya School of Law) |
| Political Party | United Democratic Alliance (UDA) |
| Positions Held | Baringo North MP (2008–2022), Baringo Senator (2022–2024) |
| Committees | Chairperson, Departmental Committee on Justice and Legal Affairs; Member, House Business Committee; Chairperson, Senate National Security, Defense and Foreign Relations Committee |
| Professional Career | Legal Officer at Industrial and Commercial Development Corporation (1993–1995); Legal Officer at Central Bank of Kenya (1995–1998); Founder, Cheptumo & Company Advocates (1998–2007) |
| Wife | Hannah Cheptumo |
| Net Worth | Not Disclosed |
| Date of Death | March 3, 2024 |
| Cause of Death | Illness |
Who Was William Cheptumo?
William Cheptumo was a distinguished Kenyan politician and lawyer who served as the Baringo Senator until his passing in 2024. With a legal background and years of experience in governance, he was a key figure in Kenya’s legislative landscape.
Early Life and Education
Born in 1967, Cheptumo spent his early years in Kenya, pursuing education that would later shape his career in law and politics. He attended Maregut Primary School, followed by Bartolimo Secondary School and Kabarnet High School between 1975 and 1987. He later earned a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Nairobi (1988–1991) and a postgraduate diploma from the Kenya School of Law.
Legal Career Before Politics
Before joining politics, Cheptumo built an impressive legal career. He worked as a Legal Officer at the Industrial and Commercial Development Corporation (1993–1995) and later at the Central Bank of Kenya (1995–1998). In 1998, he established Cheptumo & Company Advocates, where he practiced law until 2007.
Political Career
Cheptumo entered politics in 2008, when he was elected as the Member of Parliament for Baringo North Constituency. He held this position for 14 years (2008–2022). During this time, he played a pivotal role in key legislative committees, including:
- Chairperson, Departmental Committee on Justice and Legal Affairs
- Member, House Business Committee
- Member, Committee on Pensions
- Chairperson, Committee on Delegated Legislation
In 2022, he won the Baringo Senate seat under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), defeating incumbent Gideon Moi with 141,777 votes against Moi’s 71,408 votes.
As a Senator, Cheptumo chaired the Senate National Security, Defense, and Foreign Relations Committee, overseeing crucial matters affecting national stability and security.
Illness and Death
William Cheptumo had been battling an illness for some time. Although he was discharged from the hospital a week prior, his condition worsened, leading to his readmission at Nairobi Hospital. He passed away on March 3, 2024, at the age of 57.
Final Public Statement
Just two days before his passing, Cheptumo publicly supported Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the African Union Commission Chairmanship, stating:
“Raila Odinga is undoubtedly the most qualified candidate for the African Union Commission chairmanship. He is a well-crafted democrat with seasoned experience on matters of the African continent. His victory will be a win for Kenya and Africa at large. Wishing you the very best Baba. Let’s win together. Let’s bring it home together.”
Sadly, Raila Odinga lost the race to Djibouti’s Foreign Affairs Minister Mahmoud Ali Youssouf in a contested election that went seven rounds.
FAQs
1. How old was William Cheptumo when he died?
He was 57 years old at the time of his death in 2024.
2. Who was William Cheptumo’s wife?
He was married to Hannah Cheptumo.
3. What was William Cheptumo’s net worth?
His net worth was not disclosed.
4. What was William Cheptumo’s educational background?
He studied Law at the University of Nairobi and obtained a postgraduate diploma from the Kenya School of Law.
5. What positions did he hold in government?
He served as the Baringo North MP (2008–2022) and Baringo Senator (2022–2024). He also chaired various legislative committees.
Conclusion
William Cheptumo was a respected leader, lawyer, and politician who dedicated his life to serving Kenya. His contributions to governance, law, and national security will be remembered. His untimely demise is a great loss to the nation, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and service.
