The ambulance carrying the body of the late Father Allois Cheruiyot Bett arrives at MTRH Morgue, Eldoret on May 22, 2025./PHOTO: MATHEWS NDANYIA cloud of grief hung over Eldoret as the body of Father Allois Cheruiyot Bett, the Catholic priest brutally murdered in Kerio Valley, was received at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital morgue on Thursday evening.
Catholic faithful, clergy, and political leaders gathered in sombre silence.
Auxiliary Bishop of Eldoret John Lelei led a brief prayer service, joined by Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii and Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wesley Rotich.
Emotions ran high as mourners paid their respects to the beloved priest.
“We are deeply saddened by this loss. We ask for prayers for the Church and the priest’s family,” said Bishop Lelei.
Governors Wesley Rotich of Elgeyo Marakwet (L) with his Uasin Gishu counterpart Jonathan Bii and Auxiliary Bishop of Eldoret John Lelei at the MTRH morgue on May 22, 2025./PHOTO: MATHEWS NDANYIThey called on the national government to intensify efforts to disarm criminal elements and restore safety in Kerio Valley.
Father Bett, who served at St. Matthias Mulumba Tot Parish, was ambushed and shot dead on Thursday afternoon as he traveled back to Tot after presiding over a Jumuiya mass in Kakbiken village.
Governor Wesley Rotich of Elgeyo Marakwet (L) with his Uasin Gishu counterpart Jonathan Bii and Auxiliary Bishop of Eldoret John Lelei at the MTRH morgue on May 22, 2025./PHOTO: MATHEWS NDANYIAccording to the National Police Service, six suspects are currently in custody in connection with the attack.
Authorities believe it was a deliberate and targeted assault.
The killing has sparked renewed outrage over persistent insecurity in the North Rift, where, despite heavy security presence, armed attacks by suspected bandits remain common.
Faith leaders and local officials continue to call for urgent, long-term solution
