President William Samoei Ruto on Wednesday visited the Gigiri home of the late Cyrus Jirongo to condole with the family, marking another public moment of reflection following the death of one of Kenya’s most influential and controversial political figures.
Standing before family members, friends and political allies, Ruto described Jirongo as a personal friend and a man whose political journey mirrored Kenya’s own turbulent democratic evolution. Quoting scripture, the President sought to frame the loss in spiritual terms, citing Psalm 46:1: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
“This is a moment of deep sorrow for the family and for the nation,” Ruto said. “We pray that God grants them strength and comfort during this difficult time.”
Jirongo, a former powerful Kanu insider turned opposition heavyweight, loomed large over Kenyan politics for decades. He was both admired and criticised — celebrated by supporters as a shrewd mobiliser and generous patron, and viewed by critics as a symbol of the excesses and intrigues of the Moi era. His death has reopened old conversations about power, loyalty and the high cost of political ambition.
Family members received visitors quietly as senior politicians, former allies and long-time rivals streamed in. Among them were leaders who once stood shoulder to shoulder with Jirongo, as well as others who crossed swords with him during Kenya’s fractious transition to multiparty politics.
“He was fearless in politics,” said one former colleague who requested anonymity to speak freely. “Cyrus did not shy away from taking risks, even when the odds were stacked against him.”
Others reflected on his personal side, away from the public glare. “Many people only knew the political Jirongo,” said a family friend. “But to us, he was a father, a mentor and someone who believed deeply in loyalty.”
Ruto’s visit also carried political symbolism. Jirongo’s career intersected with nearly every major political realignment since the 1990s, and his passing comes at a time when Kenya’s political class is already recalibrating ahead of the 2027 elections.
