Who Was Cyrus Jirongo?

Cyrus Shakhalaga Khwa Jirongo, popularly known as Cyrus Jirongo, was a Kenyan politician, businessman, and influential political mobilizer who played a significant role in Kenya’s political landscape from the 1990s through the early 2020s. He was best known for his association with the ruling KANU party in the 1990s, his leadership of the controversial Youth for KANU ’92 (YK ’92) movement, and his multiple bids for national leadership.

Cyrus Jirongo died on December 13, 2025, after being involved in a fatal road accident, bringing to an end the life of one of Kenya’s most colorful and outspoken political figures.

Early Life

Cyrus Jirongo was born as Cyrus Shakhalaga Khwa Jirongo and grew up in western Kenya. He attended Mang’u High School between 1978 and 1981, one of Kenya’s most prestigious secondary schools, known for producing prominent leaders in politics, business, and public service.

During his early years, Jirongo developed a reputation for confidence, charisma, and leadership—traits that would later define his political career.

Entry into Public Life

Before rising fully into national politics, Jirongo became involved in sports administration. In 1991, he served as the chairman of AFC Leopards Football Club, one of Kenya’s most successful and widely supported football teams. His tenure at the club raised his national profile and introduced him to organizational leadership on a large scale.

Political Career

Leadership of Youth for KANU ’92 (YK ’92)

Cyrus Jirongo rose to national prominence in 1992 when he became the leader of Youth for KANU ’92 (YK ’92), a powerful political mobilization group that supported the then-ruling KANU party ahead of Kenya’s first multiparty elections.

YK ’92 was instrumental in energizing youth participation in politics and played a key role in President Daniel arap Moi’s re-election campaign. The movement made Jirongo one of the most influential young political figures of the era, though it also attracted controversy due to its aggressive style and alleged misuse of resources.

Member of Parliament for Lugari Constituency (1997–2002)

In the 1997 general elections, Jirongo was elected Member of Parliament for Lugari Constituency, marking his formal entry into elective politics.

However, his relationship with KANU deteriorated during his first term. By 2001, he had fallen out with the party and became associated with the unregistered United Democratic Movement. In the 2002 elections, he contested under the KANU ticket but was defeated by Enoch Kibunguchy of the National Rainbow Coalition (NARC).

Minister for Rural Development (2002)

Ahead of the 2002 general elections, President Daniel arap Moi appointed Jirongo as Minister for Rural Development, a position he held from March 12, 2002, to December 27, 2002.

Though his tenure was brief, the appointment underscored his continued relevance within national politics at a time when Kenya was undergoing major political transition.

Return to Parliament and KADDU Party (2007–2013)

Jirongo made a political comeback in 2007, forming a new party known as the Kenya African Democratic Development Union (KADDU). He successfully reclaimed the Lugari Constituency parliamentary seat during the highly contested 2007 elections.

Also Read: Author Joanna Trollope dies aged 82

Following the post-election violence and the formation of a coalition government, KADDU became the only parliamentary party excluded from the government, making Jirongo its sole Member of Parliament. Despite this isolation, he remained vocal in Parliament and continued positioning himself as a national political contender.

Presidential Ambitions

2013 Elections

In 2013, Cyrus Jirongo declared his intention to run for President of Kenya, signaling his ambition to become the country’s fourth president. However, he later withdrew from the presidential race and instead contested the Kakamega County Senate seat, while supporting Raila Odinga’s presidential bid. He lost the senatorial race to Dr. Bonny Khalwale.

2017 Presidential Run

Jirongo returned to the national stage in the 2017 general elections, this time running for president under the United Democratic Party (UDP). Although his campaign generated attention, he received approximately 11,000 votes, representing about 0.07% of the total votes cast.

Role in the 2022 General Elections

During the 2022 Kenyan general elections, Jirongo’s United Democratic Party participated as part of the Azimio La Umoja coalition. The party succeeded in electing two Members of Parliament, marking a modest but notable achievement.

Following the elections, Jirongo publicly congratulated President William Ruto on his victory, demonstrating his pragmatic approach to post-election politics.

Personal Life

Cyrus Jirongo was known for his polygamous lifestyle. He had four wives from different Kenyan communities, reflecting his belief in national diversity. His wives included:

• Joan Chemutai Kimeto (Kalenjin) – later divorced
• Christine Nyokabi Kimani (Agikuyu)
• Anne Kanini (Kamba)
• Anne Lanoi Pertet (Maasai)

His personal life often attracted public attention and discussion, adding to his reputation as a larger-than-life figure.

Death

Cyrus Jirongo died on December 13, 2025, after being involved in a road accident that occurred around 3 am. Reports indicate that he was driving himself to his rural home in Lugari when his vehicle was involved in a head-on collision with a Climax Coach bus along the Nairobi–Nakuru Highway.