President Uhuru Kenyatta, retired President Daniel arap Moi condole with Ntimama's family

Retired President Daniel arap Moi condoles with the daughter of the late William ole Ntimama, Lydia Ntimama (centre), and other family members when he visited them in Lavington, Nairobi, yesterday. [PHOTO: BEVERLYNE MUSILI/STANDARD]

NAIROBI: President Uhuru Kenyatta and retired President Daniel arap Moi are among those who went to condole with the late William ole Ntimama's family yesterday.

President Kenyatta said the Government will ensure the former Cabinet minister gets a befitting send-off.

Uhuru described Ntimama as a statesman who served his country and fought for the rights of Maasai community with passion.

"We have come here to condole with the family of the late Ntimama, who was not only the head of his family, but a national leader as well. My government will help give him the send-off he deserves," Uhuru said at the family's Lavington residence.

The President was accompanied by Interior Cabinet Secretary Joseph Nkaissery, National Assembly Majority Leader Aden Duale and National Cohesion and Integration Commission chairman Francis ole Kaparo.

Former President Moi who arrived at around noon said Ntimama's death was a big shock to him.

The former Head of State was accompanied by his son and Baringo Senator Gideon Moi, who is also Kanu chairman. Kanu Secretary General Nick Salat was also present.

Mr Moi had earlier sent his condolence message in which he pointed out how Ntimama articulated the problems of the minority during his time as Maasai leader.

While celebrating his 92nd birthday last week at his Kabarak home, the former president recounted his first meeting with Ntimama in 1955, when he worked as a district officer in Baringo. At the time, Mr Moi was a member of the Legislative Council (Legco), representing the then Rift Valley Province.

"The death of William ole Ntimama has shocked me and left me with a profound sense of loss," Moi had said.

Former powerful Cabinet minister Nicholas Biwott eulogised the late Ntimama as an astute leader who loved his people and country.

Biwott said he met Ntimama during the colonial time and later served with him in the Cabinet.

"It is sad he has left us. He was a great leader who represented his people well. He has left a vacuum that is hard to fill," Biwott said.

Nairobi County Assembly Speaker Alex ole Magelo described the fallen politician as a statesman who has mentored many leaders from Maasai land.

"Most Maa political leaders learnt the ropes from Ntimama. He fought fearlessly for the community's land rights and we should all emulate him," said Magelo.

Ntimama will be buried at his Motonyi home in Narok County on Wednesday next week.