Former Cabinet Minister Cyrus Jirongo Dies in Early-Morning Highway Crash, Nation Mourns Veteran Politician

Former Cabinet Minister and ex-Lugari Member of Parliament Cyrus Jirongo has died in a tragic road accident, shocking the country and ending a long political journey.

The 64-year-old politician lost his life early Saturday morning after a fatal crash along the Nairobi–Nakuru Highway. Police said the accident happened at around 3 a.m. in the Karai area of Naivasha. Jirongo was reportedly driving himself to his rural home in Lugari when his vehicle was involved in a head-on collision with a Climax Coach passenger bus.

Naivasha DCIO Isaac Kiama confirmed the incident. He said Jirongo died instantly due to the impact of the crash. Officers rushed to the scene shortly after the accident. However, there was nothing they could do to save him. Traffic along the busy highway slowed briefly as police secured the area and began investigations.

Soon after, officers moved Jirongo’s body to the Naivasha Sub-County Mortuary. It will remain there pending a postmortem examination. Meanwhile, both vehicles involved in the crash were towed to a police station for further inspection. Investigators are now working to establish the exact cause of the accident. They have not ruled out any possibilities.

Jirongo was a well-known figure in Kenyan politics, especially during the KANU era. He served as Minister for Rural Development in 2002 under former President Daniel arap Moi. Before that, he represented Lugari Constituency as Member of Parliament from 1997 to 2002. He later returned to Parliament, serving another term from 2007 to 2013.

Even after leaving Parliament, Jirongo remained politically active. He sought the Kakamega governorship in the 2022 General Election but did not succeed. Still, he stayed vocal on national issues and maintained a strong presence in Western Kenya politics.

News of his sudden death has triggered an outpouring of grief. Leaders, friends, and supporters have described him as outspoken, fearless and deeply committed to public service. As the nation awaits more details, many are reflecting on his influence, his controversies and his lasting mark on Kenya’s political landscape.