Kenya is mourning the death of Elijah Kiptarbei Lagat, a former Chesumei Member of Parliament and celebrated marathon runner, who passed away while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Eldoret. His death brings to a close a life that bridged the worlds of athletics and politics, leaving behind a legacy admired both locally and internationally.
Lagat rose to global prominence in 2000 when he clinched victory at the Boston Marathon, recording an impressive time of 2:09:47 in what remains one of the most memorable finishes in the race’s history. The win established him as one of Kenya’s outstanding long-distance athletes and brought immense pride to the nation. Over the years, he represented Kenya on different platforms, carving out a respected reputation within the athletics community.
Following his retirement from competitive running, Lagat transitioned into politics. He successfully contested for a parliamentary seat, first representing Emgwen Constituency before later serving as the MP for Chesumei. In Parliament, he was widely recognized as a leader who valued inclusivity and dialogue. Colleagues and constituents often described him as approachable, principled, and deeply committed to the needs of ordinary citizens.
At the time of his death, Lagat was serving as a board member of the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), where he worked to promote healthier communities by combating drug and substance abuse. His role at NACADA was seen as a continuation of his dedication to public service, even after leaving active politics.
News of his passing was met with an outpouring of grief and tributes from leaders, citizens, and the sporting fraternity. Nandi Governor Stephen Sang described Lagat as both a national hero and a dedicated public servant, emphasizing that his victory in Boston and his contributions in Parliament will remain etched in the country’s memory. Sang added that Lagat’s success inspired countless young athletes, demonstrating that discipline and resilience could place Kenyan runners firmly on the global stage.
Although details surrounding his illness remain scarce, reports indicate that Lagat had been admitted to Eldoret Hospital, where he succumbed while receiving treatment. His death is being mourned not only in his home county of Nandi but across Kenya, where his dual achievements in sports and politics earned him admiration and respect.
For many Kenyans, Elijah Lagat embodied the spirit of service, first through the determination and discipline he displayed on the marathon track, and later through his efforts to improve the lives of his constituents. His passing is being remembered as a loss to both athletics and governance, leaving a void that will be difficult to fill.
IMAGE COURTESY OF NACADA
