He Was a Fighter in Every Sense - Ruto Mourns Cyrus Jirongo

President William Ruto has expressed profound grief following the death of former Lugari Member of Parliament Cyrus Jirongo, who died in a road accident on Saturday morning.

In a statement released on Saturday, December 13, President Ruto mourned his friend as a consummate politician and seasoned businessman who refused to be defeated by life's challenges.

"I am deeply saddened by the passing of my friend, former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo," the president stated. "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."

The Head of State described Jirongo as a fighter in every sense, praising his unique combination of qualities that made him stand out in Kenya's political arena.

"He was a fighter in every sense: blunt yet warm, bold yet approachable, enlightened and endlessly entrepreneurial," President Ruto said. "Above all, he was generous to a fault; always willing to give, to uplift, and to back others with his time, resources, and belief."

The president highlighted Jirongo's fearless approach to politics and business, noting that he was never one to avoid taking tough positions or pursuing ambitious ideas.

"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," Ruto added.

My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time. Rest in peace, my friend."

The 64-year-old politician lost his life at around 3:00 a.m. when his vehicle was involved in a head-on collision with a Climax Coach bus along the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway.

According to police reports, Jirongo was traveling alone in his car, heading to Nairobi, from his ancestral home in Lugari when the tragic accident occurred.

Rift Valley traffic enforcement officer Sarah Chumo confirmed the incident, though investigations into the exact circumstances that led to the collision are still ongoing.

Several other leaders have also expressed their condolences for the veteran politician.

"I am shocked and saddened by the untimely and sad demise of Hon Jirongo in a tragic accident. He leaves an indelible mark on the political landscape of Kenya as a trailblazing youth in politics during the 1990s. His family & friends are in our prayers. RIP brother,” National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula stated.

“Rising this morning to the news of the tragic death of my friend Cyrus Jirongo. I extend my deepest condolences to his family and friends and pray that God will comfort all of you,” Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna wrote.

“On behalf of my family and the Democratic Party of Kenya, I convey my heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones, and the people of Lugari. May they find strength in the legacy he leaves behind,” Former Attorney General Justin Muturi stated.