
In his message of condolence to the family, friends and relatives, Chelugui lauded the deceased’s contribution to development.
“He opened up roads, built water pans and secured employment for hundreds of young people and ensured that his people lived a better life,” he stated.
According to Chelugui, Edward Kiptanui was not an ordinary politician, he was an exceptional leader: firm, resolute, innovative and development-oriented.
He recalled how the departed Kiptanui shaped his business agenda.
“Probably, you know by now that I plunged into the business world in my second year at the University of Nairobi in the early 1990s.That wouldn’t have been possible without the help of Hon. Kiptanui who held my hand in the city like his own child,” he said.
He revealed that they jointly established Coffee Machinery Services (EA) Ltd, a Sh60M company then based at the Industrial Area, Nairobi. That was in 1993.
Chelugui further eulogized Kiptanui as a stickler of time and a man who never entertained laziness.
“He was famously known for the phrase komait saa tisa meaning: let’s get it done before 3PM,” revealed Chelugui.
That he was among the few Korongoro age set who were able to go to school. Actually, he taught at Emining Primary School in Mogotio, Baringo County.
The former CS pointed out that Kiptanui promoted Small and Micro Enterprises especially in the transport and hospitality industry.
“I learned many valuable lessons from him. His teachings and mentorship came in handy especially when I rose to the position of Cabinet Secretary for Water, many years later. I have lost a friend, a mentor and a father figure,” he said.
Chelugui expressed his sincere and deepest condolences to Kiptanui’s family, relatives and the people of Kisanana, Mogotio and Koibatek (previously called South Baringo) who Hon. Kiptanui ably represented as MP and Assistant Minister for Water.
