Wamalwa, Amisi Press Government to Explain Jirongo’s Death Ahead of Burial

Former Defence Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa and Saboti MP Caleb Amisi have called on the government to issue an official statement explaining the circumstances surrounding the death of former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo.

The two leaders raised concerns on Sunday, December 28, 2025, as Jirongo’s body arrived at his rural home in Kitale ahead of burial preparations. 

They said the lack of a formal government briefing had created anxiety and speculation, particularly in Western Kenya, where Jirongo commanded strong political influence.

Amisi said the region was mourning but remained unsettled by unanswered questions about how the veteran politician died.

“As a community, we are grieving, but we are also confused. We are burying our brother while many questions about his death remain unanswered,” Amisi said.

Jirongo reportedly died in a road accident along the Nakuru–Naivasha highway, but Amisi argued that such a high-profile death required a detailed and transparent explanation from the state.

He criticised the silence from the Ministry of Interior and the presidency, saying no official communication had been issued since the incident.

“We are not satisfied with the silence. The government must come out and clearly explain what happened. A press briefing is necessary before burial arrangements continue,” Amisi added.

The Saboti MP said uncertainty surrounding the death had also sparked cultural and traditional concerns, warning that unresolved questions could complicate burial rites.

“When a death is unclear, cultural issues arise. That is why clarity is important, not just for politics, but for the family and the community,” he said.

Wamalwa echoed Amisi’s remarks, saying many Kenyans were still questioning whether Jirongo died in a normal accident or under suspicious circumstances.

“People are asking genuine questions. Did Cyrus Jirongo die in an ordinary road accident, or was there more to it?” Wamalwa posed.

He pointed to historical parallels, noting that Jirongo once led the Kenya African Democratic Union (KADU), a position previously held by independence-era leader Ronald Ngala, who also died in a road accident decades ago.

Wamalwa said President William Ruto, who worked closely with Jirongo during various political engagements, should personally address the nation on the matter.

“The President knew Cyrus Jirongo well. Given their history, we expected him to speak to the country and offer clarity and reassurance,” Wamalwa said.

Burial rites dispute emerges

The leaders’ demands came as tension emerged at Jirongo’s Kitale home over proposed burial rituals. 

Former Westlands MP Fred Gumo, who is chairing the funeral committee, rejected attempts by Tiriki elders to introduce certain traditional practices.

Gumo said decisions regarding burial rites should be left to Jirongo’s immediate family and warned against imposing customs the family may not recognise or support.

“This is a family matter. Traditions should not be forced on the family, especially when there is still no official explanation on how our brother died,” Gumo said.

He added that outdated rituals should not complicate the burial process, particularly at a time when the family was still coming to terms with the loss.

Jirongo, a seasoned politician, businessman, and influential power broker, played a key role in Kenya’s political landscape for decades. 

His sudden death has drawn reactions from leaders across the political divide, many of whom have described him as a fearless mobiliser and strategist.

As burial preparations continue, pressure is mounting on the government to publicly address the circumstances of his death, with leaders insisting that transparency is necessary to calm public anxiety and honour Jirongo’s national stature.