Criticism Forces Removal of Kipyegon Statue in Eldoret

A statue allegedly representing Olympic champion Faith Kipyegon has sparked widespread ridicule in Kenya after it was deemed crude and unflattering, leading to its swift removal in Eldoret. The poorly executed sculpture was linked to Kipyegon, who made history at the Paris Olympics by becoming the first woman to win three consecutive 1,500m gold medals, setting an Olympic record of 3:51.29. Criticism on social media branded the statue a 'disgrace' and called for the artist's arrest, overshadowing Kenya's overall success at the Olympics where they secured 11 medals. Another statue of marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge faced similar backlash before being taken down. Local leaders and citizens expressed outrage, calling for accountability for the funds used in the statue's creation. Despite the controversy, President William Ruto praised Kipyegon and other athletes during a welcoming ceremony in Eldoret.