NAIROBI, Kenya- Prominent Luhya leaders have demanded urgent answers over the death of former MP Cyrus Jirongo, calling on President William Ruto to explain the circumstances surrounding his passing.
The call comes amid rising tensions within the political community over extra-judicial killings and perceived threats to opposition figures.
Boni Khalwale, a vocal political leader, said, “I feel pain that they have killed Jirongo. The same speed you had when we lost MP Charles Were, we have not heard any statement.”
He added that the Luhya community’s voice and concerns should be respected, warning that Kenya would be poorer if they were ignored.
Khalwale challenged the government to act swiftly, urging President Ruto to seek a “fresh mandate from the Luhya community” and emphasizing that great leaders hold their countries together during times of crisis.
“It is during times of challenge that great people hold their country together. We must hold Kenya together,” he said.
Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi echoed calls for accountability, noting threats against leaders who raise sensitive issues.
“Someone senior in government is threatening George Khaniri for raising those issues. Let it not be that when we talk, we get threatened,” Osotsi warned.
He further cautioned against targeting opposition members for political convenience, insisting that ODM members have deep roots in the party and will not be intimidated.
Speaking during the burial ceremony of former MP Cyrus Jirongo in Lumakanda, he contrasted projections of billions of shillings for other regions with approximately Sh100 million for Western Kenya.
ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna also weighed in, asserting that justice would be unattainable under the current government.
“You cannot get justice in this government. They know the truth, but they are silent,” Sifuna said.
He appealed to former President Uhuru Kenyatta, acknowledging his support for Raila Odinga, and criticized ODM members allegedly meeting secretly with President Ruto to undermine party unity.
Sifuna reiterated that ODM’s priority remains the 10-agenda deal signed with Raila Odinga, warning against brokers trying to manipulate internal party processes.
He emphasized the need to end extra-judicial killings, stating, “After all, we shall all die. No one should take the law into their hands.”
Former Vihiga Senator George Khaniri continued to dispute claims that there was no foul play in the crash that claimed Cyrus Jirongo’s life on the night of December 13.
The former senator, addressing mourners at Lumakanda Township Primary School in Kakamega County, raised questions over the circumstances of the accident.
He said Jirongo did not drive himself to Naivasha as he was headed home to Gigiri, Nairobi.
Former Vihiga Senator George Khaniri continues to dispute claims that there was no foul play in the crash that claimed Cyrus Jirongo’s life on the night of December 13.The former senator, addressing mourners at Lumakanda Township Primary School in Kakamega County, raised
