Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has joined Kenyans in mourning the death of former Chesumei Member of Parliament (MP) and legendary marathoner Elijah Lagat, who passed away on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, while receiving treatment at Eldoret Hospital.
Passaris paid tribute to Lagat as a remarkable athlete who transitioned into politics with equal distinction. “To the resilient people of Chesumei and Nandi County, we mourn the loss of Hon. Elijah Lagat, a distinguished athlete turned devoted leader. His legacy lives on through his contributions to sports, education, and youth empowerment, notably the Kapsabet training camp. May his family find strength, and may his soul rest in eternal peace,” she said.
Lagat first rose to international fame after his stunning victory at the Boston Marathon, marking him as one of Kenya’s most celebrated long-distance runners in the late 1990s and early 2000s. He went on to represent the country in several global competitions, strengthening Kenya’s reputation as a powerhouse in distance running.
After retiring from athletics, Lagat entered politics and was elected twice as Chesumei MP. During his tenure, he was widely respected for championing dialogue, inclusivity, and development initiatives for his constituents.
Nandi Governor Stephen Sang also mourned Lagat, describing him as both a national hero and a servant leader. “Hon. Lagat was a distinguished leader whose legacy will be remembered not only in the halls of Parliament but also in the hearts of the people he served with dedication and humility. His achievements as an athlete elevated Kenya’s name globally, inspiring a generation of sportsmen and women,” Sang said.
Elijah Lagat leaves behind a legacy that straddles both sports and leadership. His journey from a world-class marathon champion to a respected legislator reflects resilience, service, and inspiration for generations to come.
