News
World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev. Dr Olav Fykse Tveit extended condolences on the death of Ambassador Bethuel Kiplagat, former moderator of the WCC Commission of the Churches on International Affairs (CCIA).
“Ambassador Kiplagat was a true ambassador of peace and reconciliation and a successful career diplomat who played crucial roles in the lives of many, both in his country, Kenya, in the East African region, and the continent of Africa at large,” Tveit stated.
Kiplagat also served as chairman of the Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission of his country, and had a distinguished record in conflict resolution efforts in the continent, facilitating historic dialogues among warring parties in Uganda, Ethiopia, Mozambique, Somalia and Sudan that all culminated in negotiated settlements.
“He has also been a valuable and willing resource person to civil society organisations who also established and chaired the African Peace Forum to help crusade peace building and reconciliation efforts in the continent,” stated Tveit.
Kiplagat was CCIA moderator from 1998-2006. “As moderator of the CCIA, he brought keen theological and public witness perspectives and vast experiences from the life of his public service,” stated Tveit. “As a moderator, he worked tirelessly to defend and promote of human rights.”
Tveit commended Kiplagat as a highly respected and beloved leader within the global ecumenical movement. “His faith and sense of dedication reflected a deep commitment and calling to serve in the life of the church, not only within his own denomination, but within the global fellowship,” Tveit stated.
