LUMAKANDA, Kenya — Former President Uhuru Kenyatta joined a host of high-ranking dignitaries and thousands of mourners in Kakamega County on Tuesday for the final send-off of former Lugari MP and Cabinet Minister, Cyrus Jirongo.
The former Head of State arrived at the Lumakanda homestead shortly after 11:30 am, as the funeral service was underway. His entrance sparked a momentary wave of excitement among the congregants, briefly interrupting the sermon as mourners rose to acknowledge his presence.
The presiding preacher paused the proceedings for several minutes to allow the former President to take his seat before resuming the ceremony.
High-profile attendance
The burial attracted a significant assembly of the nation’s political elite, including Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, reflecting Jirongo’s extensive influence in Kenyan public life.
Local leaders, led by Lugari MP Nabii Nabwera, oversaw the final arrangements to ensure the veteran politician received a dignified farewell.
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“We have worked well with friends and the government to ensure that we give him a decent burial because he was a loved man all over,” stated MP Nabwera.
The tragic incident and investigation
Cyrus Jirongo, 64, lost his life on December 13, 2025, in a devastating traffic accident at the Karai area along the Nairobi–Nakuru Highway. His private vehicle was involved in a head-on collision with a commercial bus traveling from the capital.
A comprehensive autopsy, conducted by Chief Government Pathologist Dr. Johansen Oduor and family representative Dr. Joseph Ndung’u, confirmed the cause of death as severe blunt force trauma.
The examination detailed extensive injuries to the chest, abdomen, spine, and legs. While the medical cause is established, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has maintained an active probe into the specific circumstances surrounding the collision.
Final rites
Following an overnight vigil at his Kitale residence on Sunday, Jirongo’s remains were transported to Lumakanda under tight security.
In accordance with tradition, elders designated his final resting place alongside the graves of his parents and his elder brother.
The burial marks the end of a weeks-long mourning period for a leader remembered for his dual legacy in national governance and his deep commitment to his family and the people of Western Kenya.
