Former Cabinet minister William ole Ntimama was scheduled to conduct a fundraiser in aid of 13 women groups in Olchorro area and had invited former senate aspirant Andrew ole Sunkuli to assist him in the harambee.
In Narok town, residents gathered in small groups to discuss the news.
Family sources say the 86-year-old vocal Maasai leader died of natural causes.
“Ntimama died in his sleep at 11pm on Thursday. He was in a jovial mood the whole day. After he ate supper, he retires to bed at 8pm, even though he complained of slight headache,” the source, who did not want to be named because he is not the family spokesman, said.
He said the former Narok North MP had decided to spend the night at his Melili home, because he wanted to see his livestock before attending an event yesterday.
“He contacted me for the harambee and I accepted, because he wanted to improve women livelihoods,” Sunkuli said.
Narok county police boss Abdi Galgalo said he received a call around 11pm that Ntimama has died and the body was taken to the Lee Funeral home.
At his Motonyi home, residents flocked to mourn with the family and relatives.
Narok leaders led by Governor Samuel Tunai, Senator Stephen ole Ntutu, MPs Moitalel ole Kenta (Narok North), Patrick Ntutu (Narok West), Korei ole Lemein (Narok South) sent messages of condolences.
Tunai said Ntimama's death is a big blow to the Maasai community.
“Today a dark cloud has engulfed the Maasai community after a sudden demise of one of our elite Justice Moijo ole Keiwua. It is with great sadness that I have learned of the passing of Ntimama and behalf of Narok county, I send our deepest condolences to his family and the Maasai community at this difficult time,” Tunai said.
Lemein said the country and Maasai community has lost a leader and an icon and his legacy will be remembered for a long time.
Ntimama’s son-in-law Joseph ole Sonkori said the former MP has been in the front line in fighting for the community's rights, especially the emotive land issue.
“He lived an extraordinary life and devoted his time in serving Kenyans and his legacy will remain an example for all leaders,” he said.