LUMAKANDA, Kenya — Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has paid a glowing tribute to the late former Cabinet Minister Cyrus Jirongo, describing him as a formidable political heavyweight and a steadfast guardian of Kenya’s multi-party democracy.
Speaking during a somber but politically charged burial ceremony in Lumakanda, Kakamega County, Kenyatta characterized the late Jirongo as a leader who possessed the requisite stature and vision to hold the nation’s highest office.
In his eulogy, the former Head of State highlighted Jirongo’s commitment to a pluralistic political landscape, urging contemporary leaders to emulate his respect for the independence of political institutions.
“If there was a person who truly respected and upheld multi-party democracy, then it was Cyrus Jirongo,” Kenyatta remarked. “Cyrus understood the meaning of democracy — respecting political parties and working with them without destroying them.”
The ceremony also provided a platform for Kenyatta to address growing internal friction within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
The retired President firmly denied allegations that he is utilizing proxies or “moles” to destabilize the party—claims that have recently surfaced from the top brass of the “Orange” camp.
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In what appeared to be a veiled critique of President William Ruto’s administration, Kenyatta advised the current leadership to prioritize its development agenda over political maneuvering aimed at weakening rival parties.
“If we say we are in a multiparty system, we must live by it. Let people compete on ideals and ideas, not by destroying what others have built,” he said.
He advocated for a return to issue-based politics and the preservation of a healthy, competitive democracy.
Mounting tensions within ODM party
Kenyatta’s defense follows a weekend of scathing remarks from senior ODM officials.
Party Chairperson Gladys Wanga and Minority Whip Junet Mohamed have both publicly accused the retired President of covertly interfering in their internal affairs.
“We want to tell President Uhuru Kenyatta that we are friends, but we will not accept you using moles to destabilise the ODM party,” Wanga had cautioned during a rally in Homa Bay.
Echoing these sentiments, Junet Mohamed alleged that certain party members are “on the payroll” of the retired President, warning of a looming “political battle” in January to purge those deemed disloyal to the party’s core mission.
These exchanges underscore a deepening crisis within ODM, marking one of the most significant leadership challenges the party has faced in its two-decade history.
Despite the friction, the gathering in Lumakanda remained focused on honoring the legacy of a man many considered a pillar of Western Kenya’s political influence.
The ceremony was attended by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, governors, and members of parliament among other leaders.
