In a unique fusion of local governance and global football fandom, Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich marked Arsenal FC’s dramatic 2025/2026 Premier League title victory by planting an ornamental tree at the Governor’s Office in Iten.
The ceremony was held on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, hours after Manchester City’s draw with Bournemouth, confirming Arsenal as champions for the first time in 22 years. The Governor described it as a “symbol of unity” and a testament to the team’s resilience against the odds.
“I joined Arsenal fans in marking a memorable victory by planting an ornamental tree at the Governor’s Office as a symbol of unity, and Premier League crowned champions celebration,” Rotich stated in a post shared across his social media platforms.
The event highlighted the Governor’s personal connection to the London-based club, which many had doubted would win the league, given the fierce competition from Manchester City. Reflecting on the underdog narrative/ Rotich quoted a local Swahili saying to capture the sentiment of the victory: “Walisema lakini hapa ni wapi… tos mah Jehovah” (They said it, but here we are… thanks to God).
The tree-planting initiative was organised in collaboration with the County’s Director of Planning and a team of staff who helped make the occasion memorable.
“I sincerely thank the Director of Planning Maritim and the entire team for the honour and for making the Arsenal League cup win memorable,” Rotich added, though the celebration specifically commemorated the League title rather than a cup victory.
How Arsenal won the EPL after 22 years
Arsenal’s triumph, sealed on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, ended a 22-year wait for the club’s supporters, sparking celebrations globally from London to Kenya.
The Gunners secured the title after their closest rivals, Manchester City, failed to beat Bournemouth, leaving the points gap insurmountable with one remaining.
Governor Rotich, who previously served as the county’s Deputy Governor before his election in 2022, has been known for his youthful energy and community-focused initiatives, including the Iten International Marathon and environmental conservation projects in the Kaptagat forest .
This latest celebration underscores his ability to bridge local community events with international cultural moments.
“Congratulations to all Arsenal supporters,” Rotich concluded, extending the victory well beyond the county borders to the global Gunners family
