Leaders from across the political divide have paid glowing tribute to former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo, hailing him as a trailblazer in Kenyan politics, a fearless leader, and a generous friend.
Jirongo died in a road accident early Saturday morning, around 3 am, along the Nairobi–Nakuru Highway.
The 64-year-old was travelling in his private vehicle when it collided with a passenger bus, according to reports.
Following news of his death, political leaders took to social media and public platforms to mourn his passing and reflect on his legacy.
Here are some of the tributes:
William Ruto, President
I am deeply saddened by the passing of my friend, former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo. Jirongo was a relentless go-getter, a seasoned businessman, and a consummate politician who refused to be defined, let alone defeated, by life’s challenges. He was a fighter in every sense: blunt yet warm, bold yet approachable, enlightened and endlessly entrepreneurial. Above all, he was generous to a fault; always willing to give, to uplift, and to back others with his time, resources, and belief. Never one to shrink from a tough stand or a grand idea, he lived on his own terms and left an indelible mark on our political landscape. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time. Rest in peace, my friend.
Aden Duale, Health CS
"I join fellow Kenyans and the people of Lugari in mourning the passing of Cyrus Jirongo, a towering political figure whose journey came to a sudden and painful end. I was privileged to serve with him in Parliament during my first entry into the August House in 2007. In those early days, I encountered a man of sharp instincts, deep institutional memory and an unmistakable presence, one forged in the crucible of Kenya's formative political moments. As we come to terms with this profound loss, may God grant comfort to his family, friends and all who walked this journey with him. May his soul rest in eternal peace."
Amason Jeffah Kingi, Senate Speaker
"I am deeply saddened by the untimely death of former Lugari MP, Hon. Cyrus Jirongo, following a road accident on the Nairobi–Nakuru highway earlier this morning.
We will remember the late Hon Jirongo for his contribution to our country both as an MP and Cabinet Minister, where he played key roles in delivering services to Kenyans with unwavering dedication. We pray to God that He grants the family strength at this difficult period. Rest In Peace, Mheshimiwa Jirongo."
"I have learnt with profound sadness of the passing of my friend, former Lugari Member of Parliament, Cyrus Jirongo.
Cyrus was a force of nature, fearless, driven, and unapologetically authentic. A sharp political mind and an astute businessman, he met life head-on and refused to be boxed in by circumstance or convention. He was forthright yet warm, daring yet deeply human, and his entrepreneurial spirit was matched only by his courage to take bold positions.
What truly set Cyrus apart was his generosity of heart. He gave freely of his time, his resources, and his belief in others always ready to uplift, mentor, and open doors. He lived life on his own terms, never retreating from a challenge or a big idea, and in doing so, carved out a lasting place in our nation’s political story.
I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who walked this journey with him. May they draw strength from his legacy and the many lives he impacted.
Rest well, my friend."
Esther Muthoni Passaris, Nairobi Woman Representative
"Oh no, Cyrus.
I am reminded of the comment you once made about having all your children live together with you. My heart goes out especially to them for the immeasurable loss. I know that pain too well and it is gut-wrenchingly painful.
You were a great father to your family, a father to the people of Lugari Constituency as their Member of Parliament. Not forgetting your contribution to our nation through your years of service. My heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, colleagues, and all who knew and loved you.
Rest in Peace."
George Natembeya, Trans Nzoia Governor
"It is with deep sorrow and a heavy heart that I convey my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, friends, the people of Lugari Constituency, and the entire nation following the sudden and tragic passing of the former Member of Parliament, the late Hon. Cyrus Jirongo.
His untimely death, arising from a fatal road accident along the Nakuru–Naivasha Highway, has robbed the country of a distinguished political leader whose contribution to Kenya’s public life was both profound and enduring. Hon. Jirongo was a towering figure in national politics, remembered for his unwavering commitment to public service, his deep concern for the welfare of the common mwananchi, and his resolute dedication to the growth and unity of our nation.
As we mourn this immense and irreparable loss, may the Almighty God grant eternal rest to his soul and comfort, strength, and peace to his family and all those grieving during this difficult time."
Oscar Sudi, Kapseret MP
"I'm shocked by the loss of Cyrus Jirongo, the former Lugari MP, a true giant who left a lasting legacy in the country. Hon. Jirongo was my former Boss, and I had the privilege of working closely with him for 3 and a half years, from 2009 to mid-2012, as his trusted assistant, where I witnessed firsthand his dedication, passion, and kindness.
One thing that stood out about Jirongo was his ability to sell hope to us. Even when he had no money, he would tell you that you'll get money in the next hour. Jirongo would confidently tell us that we'd solve the money problem, with such conviction that you'd believe it was already done.
He was a true leader who defied conventions and inspired those around him. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and loved ones during this time of mourning. Rest in peace, my good friend Jirongo."
"It is with deep sadness that I have learned of the death of one of our veteran politicians, Hon. Cyrus Jirongo.
I send my condolences to the family, loved ones and friends at this difficult time.
May God give them strength and comfort and may the late leader's soul rest in eternal peace. Pole sana."
Hassan Omar Hassan, UDA Secretary General
"It is with a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing on of former Lugari MP Hon. Cyrus Jirongo through a tragic road accident along the Nairobi- Nakuru highway this morning.
I have known Jirongo as a go-getter, principled and independent minded politician who served the people of Lugari with diligence. Even after serving his Lugari constituents from 1997–2002 and 2007–2013, Jirongo continued to make his contribution to better the country's social, economic and political spaces.
On behalf of the entire United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party, I convey my deepest sympathies to his family, colleagues, the people of Lugari constuency, Western Kenya region and the entire nation as we all mourn Jirongo.
May God the Almighty give his family strength in this difficult moment of great loss."
Eliud Owalo, Deputy Chief of Staff, Delivery and Government Efficiency
"It is with deep sorrow that I have learnt of the passing of Honourable Cyrus Jirongo, former Member of Parliament for Lugari Constituency. Honourable Jirongo was an astute and resilient businessman, and a go getter whose life was marked by enterprise, generosity, and public service.
Hon. Jirongo will be remembered for his bold entrepreneurial spirit, and his contribution to Kenya’s political and economic life.
My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and loved ones at this difficult time. I also extend my sympathies to the people of Lugari and to all Kenyans who mourn his passing.
May God grant the family strength and comfort, and may the soul of Hon. Cyrus Jirongo rest in eternal peace."
Jeremiah Kioni, Jubilee Party Secretary-General
"I am deeply grieved by the passing of my friend, former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo.
Jirongo was a man of uncommon courage, never afraid to take risks, to speak his mind, or to stand firm in the face of adversity. He confronted life with resilience, confidence, and an unshakeable belief in his convictions.
Beyond politics and business, he was a devoted family man who cherished his loved ones and carried himself with a strong sense of responsibility to those closest to him. He understood success not just as personal achievement, but as something to be shared.
A true son of the soil, Jirongo remained deeply connected to his roots and proud of where he came from. He left a lasting imprint on our political and economic landscape through his bold ideas and fearless leadership.
Kenya has lost a courageous leader, a visionary businessman, and a formidable political figure. His legacy will endure in the lives he touched and the contributions he made to our nation.
My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all who mourn him.
Rest in peace, Omwami."
