Calls for protection of Masaai land rights dominated yesterday’s requiem service for veteran politician and former minister William ole Ntimama.
The mass, held at the All Saints Cathedral, was attended by close family members including Ntimama’s wife Dorcas Pedelai, senior government officials led by Interior CS Joseph Nkaissery and dignitaries.
Others present were Cord leader Raila Odinga, DPP Keriako Tobiko, NCIC’s Francis ole Kaparo, former Tanzanian presidential candidate Edward Lowassa, governors Samuel Tunai (Narok) and Moses Lenolkulal (Samburu), Narok Senator Stephen Ntutu and MPs.
President Uhuru Kenyatta was expected at the service but he traveled to Mogadishu for an IGAD meeting.
He is expected to attend Ntimama’s burial today. Ntimama died in his sleep at his Melili home in Narok on September 1. He will be buried at his Motonyi home in Narok town.
Mourners described Ntimama as a visionary, a consistent and determined mentor and a human rights defender, especially of the Masaai.
His daughter Debra Sanaipei read a tribute on behalf of the family. She described Ntimama as an icon, mentor, great man and a fearless leader who fought for the Maasai.
“You taught us self-reliance and gave us the courage to stand on our own two feet in this challenging world. Papa, you were larger than life – one could feel your presence as you walked into the room,” Sanaipei said.
Nkaissery described Ntimama as a mentor and teacher who introduced him to politics when he retired as an army general in 2002.
“Mzee did not only fight for Maasai land, but for the rights of all Kenyans who were oppressed. I personally benefited a great deal from him,” he said.
Nkaissery said he will today at the burial announce to the Masaai community the political path Ntimama wanted the community to follow.
Raila said Ntimama was one of the heroes of the nation and a “personal friend” who was consistent and who stood by his word.
“We are today celebrating a life that was well lived. Mzee was fearless, compassionate and generous. He was a friend you could rely and depend on 24 hours a day,” he said.
Raila urged the government to implement the Truth, Justice and Reconcilliation Commission report in honour of Ntimama, who tirelessly fought for human rights.
Lowassa said Ntimama had two months ago called on all Masaai leaders from Kenya and Tanzania to aggressively protect their land.
“I want to ask Nkaissery to lead this fight and call all of us to protect our land,” he said.
Nairobi assembly speaker Alex Magelo said the Maasai leaders will advance Ntimama’s legacy and ensure the community’s land is protected. Maasai elders slaughtered a special bull on Sunday in honour of Ntimama.