Nairobi governor Mike Sonko has appealed to the public for assistance in getting in contact with one Nathan Ambuti, a 76-year-old man who cycled from Kakamega to Kabarnet, just to attend the burial of the late former president, Daniel Moi.
Sonko, in a Facebook post, expressed his sympathy over Ambuti’s tedious journey, which took him four-days, covering a distance of over 200 kilometers.
The embattled county head was particularly touched by Ambuti’s show of patriotism, not just because of the almost impossible journey he undertook, but also his unique dressing style.
”…nimeguzwa sana na hii story (I have been deeply touched by this story of) 76-year-old Mzee Nathan Ambuti who due to his obvious adoration of the Late 2nd President H.E. Daniel Toroitich Arap Moi cycled for 4 days all the way from Kakamega to Kabarak to attend his State Funeral dressed in a KANU-flag tie,” Sonko wrote.
Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Ambuti revealed that he was forced to sleep on verandahs during his journey to Kabarak since he did not have enough money to pay for hotel accommodation.
Upon his arrival in Kabarak, he was turned away by security officers because he arrived before time and was directed to return on Wednesday, Moi’s official burial day.
He was, however, later allowed inside after intervention by members of the late Moi’s family.
Sonko offered to facilitate the return trip for Ambuti to Butere, terming him as a gallant patriot.
”I can’t imagine how this “self-made peace ambassador for Kenya” will make his way to his home back in Butere. If anyone has Mzee Ambuti’s contacts, please share we see how we can make the return trip easier,” Sonko promised.