Fr. Allois Bett Honoured in Requiem Mass as Leaders Demand Justice
The priest was shot dead on May 22 while returning to his parish in Tot, Elgeyo Marakwet County, an area long troubled by insecurity and banditry.
Late Reverend Father Allois Cheruiyot Bett of St. Matthias Mulumba Tot Parish in Kabartile Village. Photo/The Star Kenya.
By Valary Makena
A solemn Requiem Mass was held on Monday, May 26, 2025, at Sacred Heart Cathedral in Eldoret to honour the late Fr. Allois Cheruiyot Bett.
The priest was shot dead on May 22 while returning to his parish in Tot, Elgeyo Marakwet County, an area long troubled by insecurity and banditry.
Presiding over the service, Bishop Dominic Kimengich of the Eldoret Diocese strongly condemned the killing. In his moving tribute, he described Fr. Bett as “a man of peace, a bridge builder who dared to stand in the gap for his people.” The bishop added, “His blood cries out, not for revenge, but for reconciliation and justice.”
Fr. Bett had been actively involved in local peace efforts and was reportedly cooperating with security forces in their anti-banditry operations in the volatile Kerio Valley. His commitment to promoting dialogue and community healing had earned him respect across religious and ethnic lines.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who attended the Mass and visited the bereaved family, promised swift action against the perpetrators. “We will not allow criminals to intimidate our people or silence those working for peace,” he said. “Justice must and will be served.”
Fr. Bett’s killing has sparked outrage among both religious leaders and residents. Many believe he was deliberately targeted for his role in bridging gaps between communities and assisting authorities.
The attack has renewed calls for the government to intensify security efforts in Elgeyo Marakwet, where bandit attacks have disrupted lives and livelihoods for years.
Several leaders in attendance called for increased protection for religious figures and peace workers operating in high-risk regions. They urged the community to stand united and to reject violence.
As the casket was carried out of the cathedral, mourners sang hymns of hope and unity. Emotions ran high, but the message from the pulpit remained clear: peace must prevail.
Fr. Allois Bett leaves behind a legacy of courage, service, and faith. He will be remembered not only as a priest but as a fearless voice for peace in one of Kenya’s most troubled regions.
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