Ruto Leads Nation in Mourning Former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo
President William Ruto has led Kenyans in mourning former Lugari Member of Parliament Cyrus Jirongo, who died on Saturday following a road accident along the Nairobi–Nakuru highway.
In a condolence message, President Ruto described Jirongo as a close friend and a formidable figure in Kenya’s political and business spheres, praising his resilience and lasting legacy.
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of my friend, former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo. He was a relentless go-getter, a seasoned businessman and a consummate politician who refused to be defined or defeated by life’s challenges,” Ruto said.
The President noted that Jirongo lived boldly, embraced difficult decisions and pursued ambitious ideas, describing him as a fighter who combined blunt honesty with warmth and generosity.
Tributes Pour In Across Political Divide
Leaders from across the political spectrum paid tribute to Jirongo, remembering him as a charismatic and influential leader.
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka termed Jirongo’s death a major loss to his family, the people of Lugari and the nation, hailing him as a bold leader whose contribution to public life will endure.
“Jirongo never shied away from challenging convention or pursuing his convictions with courage and clarity,” Kalonzo said.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi said Kenya had lost a leader whose influence shaped politics and business for decades. He recalled Jirongo’s role in the YK ’92 movement and described him as a visionary businessman with a strong footprint in real estate developments such as Hazina, South B and Saika Estate in Kayole.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula said Jirongo left an indelible mark as a trailblazing youth leader in the 1990s, while former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua remembered him as a committed public servant who served Lugari residents diligently.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen described Jirongo as a feisty political organiser and astute businessman who influenced Kenya’s political and economic life.
Final Farewell
Current and former legislators, together with past and present Cabinet members, gathered at the Lee Funeral Home on Saturday morning to receive Jirongo’s body as tributes continued to stream in.
Former minister Fred Gumo recalled Jirongo’s pivotal role during the 1992 elections, saying his encouragement helped rally youth support for the late President Daniel Moi.
Jirongo, a former presidential candidate and key figure behind the YK ’92 outfit, is remembered as a generous, bold and charismatic leader whose impact touched many lives.
