Biwott’s three widows in rare show of unity ahead of burial
The three widows of former Kanu strongman Nicholas Biwott displayed a rare show of unity at a requiem service held on Monday.
The three widows, Prof Margret Kamar, Hannei Kiprono Biwott and Kalista Lessie, proudly held hands as they were introduced to mourners at Biwott Day Secondary School in Toot Village, Elgeyo-Marakwet County.
It was a rare glimpse at Mr Biwott’s polygamous life that was otherwise wrapped in mystery throughout his public life.
He left behind a family of seven children-six daughters and a son- and 11 grandchildren.
At the requiem service, Prof Kamar introduced the family members to mourners, including herself and her two co-wives Hannie and Kalista.
‘WHOLE TRUTH’
“I think we’ve put this to rest. You’ve known nothing but the whole truth,” said the Uasin Gishu County senatorial candidate.
Prof Kamar thanked her co-wife Hannie for “taking care of mzee during his younger age.”
Hannie Biwott, on her part, said that she was instrumental in urging Mr Biwott to set up Mary Soti Secondary School which was established in honour of Biwott’s late mother.
Hannie recounted how she was surprised in the 1990s when her husband was accused of murder and corruption.
“I told him to buy space in a newspaper and defend himself but he declined saying that it was above his dignity to fight back,” she told mourners.
NEGATIVE MEDIA COVERAGE
She also regretted the negative media coverage on Mr Biwott.
She recalled how while in university with Mr Biwott in Australia, she knew him as a man of high principles.
He said that Biwott was a close friend with retired President Moi
“When people were abandoning Kanu, Biwott vowed never to abandon Moi,” said Hannie.
