By Dawan Africa - Reporter
Kenya, 25 December 2025 - National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has warned political leaders against exploiting the death of former Minister and Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo for political gain, saying that it is a sign of disrespect to the family of the deceased.
Speaker Wetang’ula said he was deeply pained by the loss, describing Jirongo as a unifying national figure whose legacy should not be scandalised through political grandstanding.
He spoke on Wednesday, when he, together with other leaders from the Luhya Nation, visited Jirongo’s home in Lumakanda, Lugari Constituency, to condole with his family.
“I appeal to leaders to show restraint and respect the family during this difficult moment. Let us not use this tragedy for cheap political mileage,” Wetang’ula said, cryptically referring to Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya who, without evidence, claimed that “Jirongo was assassinated.
And for the first time, the Speaker revealed that he was among the last people to meet Jirongo before his untimely death in a road accident at Karai area in Naivasha.
Offering a personal tribute, Wetang’ula recounted a friendship spanning more than three decades, which began in 1988 when Jirongo was his client during his days as a practising lawyer.
“I first met Jirongo in 1988 when he gave me a case to handle, which I won, and he paid me Sh180,000,” Wetang’ula said.
He recalled that on the evening before the fatal accident, he had met Jirongo in Karen alongside businessman Rebman Malala and retired General and Athletics Kenya president Jackson Tuwei.
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“At around 9.30pm, I excused myself because I was travelling to the Coast to attend the burial of an MP who had also died in a road accident,” he said.
Mr Wetang’ula said he was shocked the following morning when news broke that Jirongo had perished in a crash.
Describing the former minister as a vibrant politician, successful businessman and peace-loving leader, the Speaker said Jirongo related well across political divides and was committed to unity, particularly within the Luhya community.
“Jirongo died before achieving his dream of uniting the Luhya community. The best way to honour him is to ensure that this dream is realised,” Wetang’ula said, adding that unity would be the greatest tribute the community could offer.
Accompanying the Speaker were Bungoma Senator and Senate Chief Whip Wafula Wakoli, Bungoma Woman Representative Catherine Wambilianga, Webuye East MP Martin Pepela, Lugari MP Nabii Nabwera and former presidential candidate Prof George Wajackoyah.
Jirongo will be laid to rest on 30 December 2025 at his rural home in Lumakanda, Lugari Constituency, Kakamega County.
