Leaders across the political divide have paid tribute to
former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo, describing him as a trailblazer, a fearless
politician and a generous friend.
Jirongo passed away in a road accident on Saturday morning,
at around 3 am, along the Nairobi- Nakuru Highway.
The 64-year-old met his tragic end when his car collided
with a passenger bus, according to reports.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula said he was
shocked and saddened by Jirongo’s untimely death in a road accident, noting his
impact on politics.
“He leaves an indelible mark on the political landscape of
Kenya as a political trailblazing youth in the 1990s,” he said.
“His family and friends are in our prayers. Rest in peace,
brother.”
Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah described Jirongo’s death as a
profound national loss and extended condolences to his family and constituents.
“I extend my
heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all Kenyans mourning this
great loss, and pray that God grants them strength, comfort, and peace during
this difficult time,” he said.
“Eternal rest
grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul,
through the mercy of God, rest in peace.”
COTU Secretary-General Francis Atwoli remembered Jirongo as
a valuable figure in both his community and the country.
“This morning, with a lot of shock and sadness, I learned of
the passing of Cyrus Jirongo, who was an asset to our community and Kenya,” Atwoli
said.
“We loved him, but God loved him more. May his soul rest in
peace.”
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna described Jirongo as a personal
friend and offered prayers to his loved ones.
“I rise this morning to the news of the tragic death of my
friend Cyrus Jirongo. I extend my deepest condolences to his family and friends
and pray that God will comfort all of you,” Sifuna said.
Former presidential aspirant Reuben Kigame said the news was
particularly painful after he unknowingly passed the accident scene in
Naivasha.
“We saw the wreck as we drove past, but did not know he was
the one involved. May God comfort his family and friends,” Kigame said.
KANU chairman Gideon Moi eulogised Jirongo as a bold
political actor and a deeply loyal family man, speaking on behalf of the Moi
family and the party.
“Jirongo was known to us first as a family man. He spoke
with pride about his family and carried that sense of responsibility into every
space he entered,” Moi said.
He recalled Jirongo’s sense of humour, warmth, confidence and
loyalty.
“Over the years, we shared many moments with Jirongo. He was
a familiar presence, and at no point did he ever hide his convictions. He was
bold in thought and action,” Moi added.
He eulogised the man as honest and respectful, which was the
basis of their conversations.
“As a political figure, he played a visible and influential
role in the country’s public life, particularly during the final years of KANU
as the ruling party. He was energetic, fearless, and unapologetic about his
views,” Moi said.
“On behalf of the Moi family and KANU, I extend my heartfelt
condolences to his family, friends, and all who loved him. May God’s strength,
grace, and peace be with them during this sorrowful time. May the soul of Hon Cyrus
Jirongo rest in eternal peace.”
Saboti MP Caleb Amisi said he cancelled his birthday
celebrations out of respect for Jirongo.
“I woke up to the sad news of the loss of Hon Cyrus Jirongo
through a terrible road accident. A good man at heart, an astute politician who
spoke uncomfortable truths, and generous to the core,” he said.
“In his respect, I will not hold any celebration today. May
the Lord rest his soul in eternal peace.”
Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka said, "I am deeply saddened by the passing of Hon. Cyrus Jirongo. His tragic death in a road accident along the Nairobi–Nakuru Highway is a profound loss to his family, the people of Lugari, and the nation at large. Hon. Jirongo was a bold and charismatic leader who never shied away from standing out, challenging convention, or pursuing his convictions with courage and clarity.
"His contribution to Kenya’s public life and his distinctive voice in our national discourse will be remembered. On behalf of my family and the Wiper party, I convey my heartfelt condolences to the family of Hon. Cyrus Jirongo, his friends, and the people of Kakamega County and the wider Western Kenya region. May God grant his family strength and comfort during this difficult time, and may the soul of Hon. Cyrus Jirongo rest in eternal peace."
