The burial of former Lugari Member of Parliament Cyrus Jirongo in Lumakanda, Kakamega County, turned into a powerful display of emotion, political reflection, and public admiration as top national leaders arrived to pay their final respects.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta received a rousing welcome moments after arriving at the burial grounds, triggering ululations and sustained applause from mourners who had gathered in large numbers.
Dressed in a solemn all-black outfit, Uhuru walked calmly through the crowd, flanked by local MP Nabii Nabwera and his security detail, as residents rose to acknowledge his presence.
The atmosphere shifted palpably upon his arrival, underscoring the enduring political weight Uhuru still commands across regions.
He later exchanged greetings with senior leaders including National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, and KANU Chairman Gideon Moi, reflecting the wide political spectrum Jirongo once engaged.
In a heartfelt tribute, Uhuru described the late Jirongo as a courageous, principled, and inclusive leader who transcended tribal politics. He credited Jirongo with introducing him to active politics through KANU, noting that even as their political paths diverged, their friendship endured.
“Cyrus believed in unity, courage, and loyalty. He never feared power, and he never abandoned his friends,” Uhuru told mourners, adding that Kenya had lost a leader with the capacity to rise to the highest office.
Uhuru also used the moment to urge leaders from Western Kenya to embrace unity, saying Jirongo’s legacy should inspire cooperation rather than division.
Moments later, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna arrived to equally loud cheers, briefly interrupting ongoing speeches. Legislators at the dais paused as mourners welcomed the ODM Secretary General with chants and applause, highlighting his growing popularity beyond Nairobi.
The burial ceremony drew leaders from across political divides, reinforcing Jirongo’s reputation as a bridge-builder who commanded respect nationally. His death in a tragic road accident left a void that speakers described as both political and personal.
The overwhelming public response reflected not just grief, but a collective recognition of a leader whose influence cut across regions, parties, and generations.
