His new statement explains that the plan was misunderstood and that the legacy of the legendary athlete will remain secure.
Sang revealed that the stadium in Kapsabet is being moved from its current eight-acre piece of land to a much larger site outside the Kapsabet Showground.
He said the relocation will allow the facility to be expanded into a modern sports venue that can host several activities at once.
The governor insisted that this upgrade is aimed at strengthening Nandi’s position as a heartland of global athletics.
He also stressed that the new stadium will still carry Kipchoge Keino’s name. Sang said the intention is to honour both the athlete’s legacy and the progress brought by the current administration.
He added that the president has supported major investments in sports, and the county wants to highlight that commitment.
Sang explained that he proposed the new name to avoid confusion. There is already another Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret, and he felt giving the Kapsabet one a distinct identity would help.
He said naming it after President Ruto would recognise the leader’s strong ties to the region and the development pushed by his government.
The governor said Kenya has many stadiums named after prominent national figures.
He pointed to examples such as Moi Stadium and Raila Odinga Stadium and argued that naming a facility after the president is in line with existing practice.
He assured residents that the identity of both stadiums will be protected. The original venue in Uasin Gishu will keep its historic status.
Sang added that his team is working with all stakeholders to ensure there is no confusion about the future of the two facilities.
The governor’s clarification followed his remarks at the launch of the new Kapsabet Municipality offices, where he hinted at renaming the stadium.
His comments sparked debate across the county and online.
The upgrade is part of President Ruto’s wider plan to deliver twenty five new or improved stadiums across the country by 2027.