President William Ruto is leading the nation in mourning the death of former Lugari Member of Parliament (MP) Cyrus Jirongo, describing him as a close friend and a towering figure in Kenya’s political and business spheres.

In a heartfelt message, the Head of State expressed deep sorrow over the loss, saying the country had lost a leader whose life was defined by resilience, courage, and generosity.

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of my friend, former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo,” President Ruto said, setting the tone for a tribute that highlighted both the personal and national impact of Jirongo’s death.

The President’s message underscored the long-standing relationship between the two leaders and the respect Jirongo commanded across political divides.

Ruto portrayed Jirongo as a man of uncommon drive and ambition, crediting him with the ability to rise above adversity and remain relevant across changing political seasons.

“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 said, pointing to a career marked by persistence and adaptability.

A Fighter in Politics and Life

The President further painted Jirongo as a complex yet relatable figure whose personality resonated with many Kenyans.

“He was a fighter in every sense: blunt yet warm, bold yet approachable, enlightened and endlessly entrepreneurial,” Ruto said, capturing the contradictions that defined the late former MP’s public life.

The description reflected a leader who combined firmness with approachability, and ambition with humility.

Jirongo’s generosity featured prominently in Ruto’s tribute, with the President noting that giving was central to his character.

“Above all, he was generous to a fault; always willing to give, to uplift, and to back others with his time, resources, and belief,” he said.

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An Indelible Political Legacy

President Ruto said Jirongo never shied away from difficult decisions or ambitious visions, describing him as a leader who charted his own path.

“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,” he said.

As the nation comes to terms with the loss, Ruto extended condolences to those closest to the former MP.

“My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time,” he said, acknowledging the personal grief behind the public mourning.

President Ruto concluded his message with a simple farewell that echoed the depth of their friendship and respect.

“Rest in peace, my friend,” he said.

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Tributes From Leaders

The death of Cyrus Jirongo has drawn an outpouring of condolences from leaders across the political divide, many of whom described him as a national asset whose contribution transcended party lines.

Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli said he had received the news with deep shock and sadness.

“This morning, with a lot of shock and sadness, I have learnt of the passing on of Cyrus Jirongo who was an asset to our community and Kenya. We loved him but God loved him more. May your soul rest in peace,” Atwoli said.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula described Jirongo as a trailblazer whose influence shaped a generation of politicians.

“Am shocked and saddened by the untimely and sadden demise of Hon Jirongo in a tragic accident. He leaves an indelible mark on the political landscape of Kenya as a political trailblazing youth in the 1990s. His family & friends are in our prayers. RIP brother,” Wetang’ula said.

Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka also conveyed his condolences, extending his sympathies beyond the family to the wider region.

“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,” Kalonzo said.

Siaya Governor James Orengo said the loss had been received with a heavy heart, noting the pain left in its wake.

“It is with a heavy heart that I have received the sad news of the passing of Hon. Cyrus Jirongo following a road accident. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and loved ones. May they find strength, comfort, and peace during this profoundly difficult time,” Orengo said.

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Former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo. PHOTO/UGC.