This archive report was first published on 11 July 2019.
July 11, 2019, marked a special day for Nyaribari Chache MP Richard Tong'i as he embarked on an emotional journey to repay a 30-year-old debt to his Indian benefactor, Kashinath Gawli.
When Tong'i was a student of management studies at a local college in Aurangabad, India, from 1985 to 1989, Gawli, who ran a grocery shop in the Wankhedenagar locality, extended a Ksh 300 (Rs 200) loan to him. However, the debt remained outstanding for three decades until Tong'i decided to repay it.
Upon his arrival in Aurangabad, Tong'i was overwhelmed with emotion as he met Gawli, who was visibly moved by the MP's gesture. Gawli's joy knew no bounds as he thanked Tong'i for repaying the debt.
"I could not believe my eyes," Gawli told journalists, expressing his gratitude towards Tong'i.
Tong'i, accompanied by his wife Michelle, said that repaying the debt was an emotional journey for him. He was in tears as he met Gawli and expressed his heartfelt thanks.
"As a student in Aurangabad, I was at my lowest point, when these people (Gawlis) helped me. Then I thought that some day, I will come back and (re)pay. I want to say thank you. This is so emotional for me," Tong'i said, as quoted by the New Indian Express.
Before leaving Aurangabad, Tong'i invited Gawli to visit Kenya, further solidifying their friendship.
Tong'i's gesture has been widely praised on social media, with many commending him for his humility and kindness. However, not everyone has been impressed, with some critics questioning his priorities and suggesting that he focus on fulfilling his campaign pledges, including roads construction.
