Bethuel Kiplagat: Angel of peace who touched many lives

Bethuel Kiplagat. (Courtesy)

Bethuel Kiplagat was a long serving Kenyan civil servant, official and diplomat. He served as chairman of the defunct Truth, Justice, and Reconciliation Commission (TJRC) from 2009 to 2010 when he resigned.

The resignation was instigated by accusations from various quarters, including civil society groups, fellow commissioners and human rights activists of playing a role in the 1984 Wagala Massacre.

He was, however, reinstated as TJRC chairman in 2012 despite dissent from other commission members and the public.

Previously, Kiplagat had served as Permanent Secretary in the ministry of Foreign Affairs, High Commissioner for UK, and Ambassador to France.

He also worked as Kenya’s special envoy to Somalia’s peace accord, as well as chairman of the Board of the African Medical Research Foundation.

He also worked as the director of Africa Peace Forum Kenya with a focus on crusading for peace building and reconciliation efforts in the African continent. His role in the Mozambican peace process is also well documented.

From 1998 to 2006, Kiplagat served as moderator for CCIA (Computer and Communications Industry Association). His role in this organisation was valuable, having brought with him a keen public witness and theological perspectives alongside vast experience from public service.

Other capacities in which he served include Executive Director of the Universal Bank of Kenya, member of Nairobi Stock Exchange, and Chairman of Kenya Rural Enterprise Programme as well as Operation Save Innocent Lives.

Other than public service, Kiplagat was also a church enthusiast and highly respected ecumenical leader. His sense of dedication and faith reflected his deep calling and commitment to the life of the church.

Kiplagat was born on November 28, 1936 and graduated from Makerere University before proceeding to Sorbonne University in Paris. He died at the age of 81 at Nairobi Hospital while battling a long time illness.