Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi has paid tribute to former Lugari MP
Cyrus Jirongo, recounting his time working closely with the veteran politician
and businessman and describing him as a leader who inspired hope and defied
convention.
In a condolence message following Jirongo’s death, Sudi said
he was shocked by the loss of a figure he termed “a true giant” whose influence
and legacy would endure.
He noted that Jirongo had played a formative role in his own
political and professional journey.
“Hon. Jirongo was my former boss, and I had the privilege of
working closely with him for three and a half years, from 2009 to mid-2012, as
his trusted assistant,” Sudi said.
“During that time, I witnessed firsthand his dedication,
passion and kindness.”
Sudi highlighted what he described as Jirongo’s exceptional
ability to instil confidence and optimism among those around him, even in
difficult circumstances.
He recalled that Jirongo had a unique way of reassuring his
team and motivating them to persevere.
“One thing that stood out about Jirongo was his ability to
sell hope to us,” Sudi said.
“Even when he had no money, he would tell you that you would
get money in the next one hour. He would confidently tell us that we would
solve the money problem, with such conviction that you would believe it was
already done.”
According to Sudi, that optimism was a defining leadership
trait that set Jirongo apart and enabled him to rally people behind his ideas
and ambitions.
He described the former Lugari MP as a leader who challenged
norms and inspired loyalty among those who worked with him.
“He was a true leader who defied conventions and inspired
those around him,” Sudi said.
Sudi extended his condolences to Jirongo’s family, friends
and associates, noting that the loss had been deeply felt by those who knew him
personally and professionally.
“My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends and
loved ones during this time of mourning,” he said. “Rest in peace, my good
friend Jirongo.”
The tributes underscored Jirongo’s enduring impact on Kenyan
politics and the personal bonds he forged with colleagues and protégés over the
years.
Jirongo, a prominent political figure and businessman,
served as Lugari MP and was known nationally for his influence in politics and
public life.
He died on Saturday following a grisly early morning
accident along the Nairobi-Nakuru highway.
The 64-year-old was travelling in his private vehicle along
the Nairobi–Nakuru Highway when it collided with a passenger bus.
Rift Valley Traffic Enforcement Officer Sarah Chumo said the
crash happened at around 3:00 a.m. December 13, 2025, along the busy
Nairobi–Nakuru Highway.
According to the police report, Jirongo was driving from the
Nakuru direction heading towards the Nairobi direction before colliding head-on
with a passenger bus.
Former Lugari Member of Parliament will be laid to rest on
December 30, 2025, the burial committee announced.
Speaking on behalf of the committee, former Vihiga Senator George
Khaniri said relatives had agreed on the burial arrangements after
consultations.
“We have agreed on the burial date which has been set
tentatively for December 30, 2025. The former MP had many homes, and questions
were being asked as to which home he will be buried,” he said.
He said the family had resolved that the former MP will be
buried at his Lumakanda home, next to his parents.
