Leaders eulogise former Eldoret South MP

Leaders have paid tribute to former Eldoret South MP Wilson Korir who passed on last week in an Eldoret hospital.

The leaders described Mr Korir as an astute leader who played a pivotal role in shaping the region's politics, having been a close ally of former President Daniel arap Moi. Korir was a one-time legislator who served from 1983 to 1988 a Kanu MP. He died at the age of 77 after falling sick.

Kesses MP James Bett eulogised the former legislator for leading from the forefront by contributing immensely to the construction of schools in the region. "It is sad that he has gone to be with the Lord but we shall remember him as a champion for education. We will continue with the work he started," he said. Mr Bett noted that Korir was among those who oversaw the establishment of Moi University because of his closeness to the ruling party.

Woman Rep Eusilah Ngeny praised Korir's efforts in the agriculture sector, saying the region had lost an active farmer.

"He will be remembered for his role in farming. He led from the front and would not relent in defending both maize and dairy farmers," said Ms Ngeny.

Uasin Gishu Speaker Isaac Terer noted that despite his prolonged illness, he was instrumental in providing advice to the current leaders in government on the need to unite the society.

"He used to call us to his home, where he would inform us on the need to work for the electorate and leave a legacy," said Mr Terer.

He added: "As an MP, he united people and was commonly referred to as 'Simba', because he was among the pioneers of the sale of Peugeot vehicles locally, as well as his aggressiveness in politics." Terer called on leaders to emulate Korir's character by focusing on providing service and improving locals' livelihoods.

According to his son, Michael Korir, his father had been ailing from renal failure and succumbed to the condition at Reale Hospital in Eldoret. "It is a sad moment for us, Dad loved us and his role in society put the name of our family on the country's map. He will be laid to rest on December 31," he said.