James Muhia stood up for his late friend, Cheruiyot Kirui, who tragically passed away while attempting to climb Mt. Everest without extra oxygen.
Muhia defended Kirui’s decision by highlighting his vast experience and unwavering passion for climbing.
Kirui and Muhia had previously conquered Mt. Manaslu, a peak reaching 8,163 meters, without the use of extra oxygen or special gear.
The successful climb of Mt. Manaslu was part of their preparation for the ultimate challenge of Mt. Everest.
Muhia emphasized that Kirui’s decision to climb Everest was not impulsive, showcasing a photo of their summit on Mt. Manaslu in September 2023.
Despite planning to accompany Kirui on the Everest expedition, Muhia had to withdraw due to personal reasons, expressing full confidence in Kirui’s abilities.
Muhia’s unwavering trust in Kirui was based on their shared climbing experiences, particularly their achievement on Mt. Manaslu.
In response to criticism surrounding Kirui’s risky choice, Muhia urged people to focus on honoring Kirui’s accomplishments and dedication to climbing.
Muhia encouraged others to remember Kirui for who he was and the remarkable feats he had achieved, rather than solely focusing on the risks involved.
Muhia’s heartfelt comments served as a reminder to celebrate Kirui’s legacy and passion for mountaineering.