I never imagined this day would come so soon. You were so full of life. You touched hearts of many people far and beyond. Your name was a brand – “Mkuu wa Misamiati” – as you were popularly known.

Let me begin there - with the name Mkuu wa Misamiati. That name captured my attention four years ago on Sauti ya Wachuuzi and Nakuru Analysts Whatsapp pages. Your command of the Swahili language was just out of this world. Many of us believed you were a teacher, and a Swahili teacher for that matter. Little did we know that this was not the case but for sure, you were a Mkuu wa Misamiati.

You did not only have a command of Swahili, but of Kikuyu and French as well. The way you articulated your issues in those languages was to say the least intimidating.

Many people did not know you physically but you made many friends who would have wished to meet you in person. For those of us who were privileged to meet you, we were overwhelmed by your humility, honesty and kindness. You were loyal to your friends and a loving dad to your daughter. Many were the times you shared a picture of her and you would swear to protect her with your own life. Only God will be the protector and provider for your little angel.

We fought side by side – from hill to hill and from page to page. We crossed valleys and rivers together for the same cause; for good governance and justice. You touched many hearts in fighting for peaceful coexistence among communities living in your neighborhood, our country and beyond.

Many will remember you as a person who stood firmly for what he believed in. Many were the times you would say, “do not awaken the dragon in me”, and you would tell us to “wait, fire loading shortly”. May your dragon sleep in peace.

You were a brave soldier that neither surrendered nor retreated. You fought the good fight, won the race, and to us you are a hero.

Fare thee well soldier. We salute you Mkuu wa Misamiati. Till we meet again on the beautiful shores.

Mkuu wa Misamiati, born Alex Nyageta Ong'era, was buried on March 8, 2019 at Metta Farm in Mau Narok, Nakuru County.

Tribute by “Sir” Paul Ndirangu, teacher in Molo.