Former Chesumei MP Elijah Lagat is dead
Former Chesumei Member of Parliament Elijah Kiptarbei Lagat has passed away while receiving treatment at Eldoret Hospital.
Until his demise, the celebrated athlete served as a board member of the National Campaign Against Drug Abuse Authority (NACADA).
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Lagat, who was born on June 19, 1966, first entered Parliament in 2007 on an ODM ticket. He was elected in 2013 as the first MP for Chesumei under the Jubilee Party, marking his return to the National Assembly following the division of Emgwen into two constituencies.
Nandi Governor Stephen Sang, who condoled with Lagat’s family, said the former legislator will be remembered for championing dialogue and inclusivity while representing his constituents.
“Lagat was both a national hero and a committed public servant. It is with deep sorrow and a profound sense of loss that we have learned of his demise,” said Sang.
He added that Lagat was a distinguished leader whose legacy will be remembered not only in Parliament but also in the hearts of the people he served with dedication and humility.
” As a legislator, he was deeply committed to dialogue and inclusivity. He led with wisdom, always engaging in wide consultation to ensure that the voices of his constituents were heard, respected and represented,” said Sang.
The county boss also lauded Lagat’s international athletic achievements, recalling his famous win in Boston as a source of national pride.
“Hon Lagat made Kenya proud on the international stage. His remarkable victory at the 2000 Boston Marathon remains etched in our history. His achievements as an athlete elevated Kenya’s name globally, inspiring a generation of sportsmen and women across the country,” said Sang.
Lagat held several leadership roles during his tenure in parliament, including vice chairperson of the Labour and Social Welfare Committee, chairperson of the Sports Sub-committee, vice chairperson of the Catering and Health Services Committee and chairperson of the Health Services Sub-committee.
He also served as Deputy Human Resources Manager in Nandi County for five years. He held a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Diploma in Adult Education from the University of East Africa, Baraton.
