How much is spent on Presidential & governor elections? All over the world the amounts are huuuge! How much do office holders earn?

Mr Chirchir Masit, who was among the elders who tried to mediate in 2014, said they pulled out all the stops to get in touch with Justice Tunoi, including roping in a former Eldoret mayor, to no avail.

“Unfortunately, we were unable to meet the judge, who is a respected man in the community. The boy (Mr Kiplagat) later told us he had stopped taking his calls. I think that is when he decided to go public,” Mr Masit told Saturday Nation.

“We are very worried. Those he entered the deal with will be held responsible if anything happens to him. This issue should not be politicised as it touches on corruption and whistleblowers,” said Mr Masit.

In Chepkorio, Lelmet, as Mr Kiplagat is better known, was described by neighbours as “an outgoing person”, a “cheerful go-getter” and “a man of the people.”

“He is a very hard working and ambitious man. We are surprised to hear people describing him as an extortionist,” said Mr Joseph Ruto, the Elgeyo-Marakwet ODM chairman.

“Why should he lose his life for assisting people as per their agreement? Si apewe tu haki yake (he should get his dues). Utafaidika nini ukiwacha mtoto akilia na unakunywa maziwa (What will it benefit you if you enjoy milk when the child is crying?” asked Mr Ruto.