Kelvin Kiptum’s parents, Samson Cheruiyot and Mary Kangongo, have recently revealed the emotional strain caused by their relationship with their daughter-in-law, Asenath Rotich, following the tragic passing of their son. The couple shared their heartbreak over not having seen their grandchildren for an entire year, adding to their deep sense of loss.
Since Kelvin’s untimely death in a road accident, his parents have expressed a sense of abandonment and confusion regarding the whereabouts of their grandchildren, Caleb and Precious. According to Mary, it has been a year since she last saw the children, and she remains unsure of their current location. She described her attempts to reconnect with them, even visiting their school, only to learn that the children had not been attending classes for some time. The news left her feeling further isolated from her late son’s family.
Before his passing, Kelvin and Asenath lived in harmony, with the children always staying close to home. Mary recalled how the children were never allowed to roam freely, and they were often found at home or in the immediate vicinity. Now, the absence of the children has left an emotional void in Mary’s life, as they were a constant reminder of her late son.
In an emotional interview, Mary shared her sorrow, stating, “I’ve not seen my grandkids for a year… till date, I don’t know where they are. I used to hear that they are in Kipkorkor but I don’t see them.” She continued to express her concern, “I even tried to ask in their school and they said it has been long since they went to school. Till today, I still wonder where Kiptum’s children are.”
The emotional toll of the separation has left Mary yearning for any information about the children. She urged the public, “If anyone knows where my grandchildren are, they should bring them back. They are the ones who will give us strength.” The thought of the grandchildren being distant from them has only intensified the pain of losing Kelvin, as they are seen as the only living connection to him.
Mary’s desperation for a reunion was further emphasized when she added, “However, I have told Kiptum to ensure his children come back home, and if they are somewhere else, they should not have peace. I’m wondering who has hidden my children.” Her words reflect the deep longing for closure and the hope that the children would return to their home.
Kelvin’s father, Samson, also voiced his distress over the situation. He clarified that they never forced Asenath to leave, but instead, she chose to depart shortly after Kelvin’s funeral without informing them of her plans. Samson mentioned that Asenath left just a month after their son’s burial, and since then, they have had no communication with her or the grandchildren. Despite the hurt caused by her sudden departure, Samson reiterated that Asenath is always welcome back home if she chooses to return.
“I feel so hurt… when my child was just buried, Asenath stayed for just a month and I didn’t know she had a plan. Since my son was buried, I don’t know where she went with my grandchildren. We didn’t chase her away,” said Samson, his voice heavy with emotion.
The tragic accident that claimed the life of Kelvin Kiptum occurred in Eldoret, Kenya. The 24-year-old athlete died alongside his coach, Gervais Hakizimana, while a third person, Sharon Chepkurui Kosgei Keiyo, survived with serious injuries. The loss of their son has left a lasting void in the lives of Samson and Mary, who now cling to the hope of being reunited with their beloved grandchildren, who are their only remaining connection to Kelvin.
