🇰🇪KenyaEast Africa
Jomo Kenyatta lookalike Michael Ngige returns to Kenya after 14 years in US, arrested during fuel price protests
via Tuko3 min read
Michael Ngige, known for his resemblance to Kenya's founding president Jomo Kenyatta, has returned to Kenya after living in the United States for 14 years. Ngige, who was born at Pumwani Maternity Hospital and raised in Nairobi's Jericho estate, gained public attention in Seattle due to his likeness to Kenyatta. He relocated abroad in 2012, citing political instability, and initially worked as a food delivery driver. After facing hardships, including being sheltered by a church that later burned down, Ngige decided to return to Nairobi, where his two children reside. Upon his return, he was arrested among protesters demonstrating against high fuel prices and subsequently arraigned in court. His appearance at the protests on April 21 sparked varied reactions among social media users. President William Ruto has defended Kenya's high fuel prices, attributing them to road maintenance levies and infrastructure standards.
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A man bearing a striking resemblance to Kenya's first president, Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, was among protesters arrested in Nairobi during demonstrations against rising fuel prices. Michael Ngige, whose appearance, including his hair, beard, and eyes, mirrored the late president, was arraigned in court alongside other activists. Ten individuals were presented at the City Court, while 43 others faced charges in Machakos. The protesters were accused of blocking movement and causing inconvenience to motorists. Anti-riot police dispersed the demonstrations, stating the arrests were to prevent business disruption and maintain public order. Social media users reacted to Ngige's likeness to Kenyatta, with some jokingly questioning reincarnation. The judge granted each accused person a cash bail of KSh 3,000. President William Ruto previously defended Kenya's high fuel prices, attributing them to the country's status as a lower-middle-income economy.