Politics

Ruto Skipping Jirongo’s Burial Is Pure Betrayal-Says Amemba Magufuli

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5 months ago Scott

Ruto Skipping Jirongo’s Burial Is Pure Betrayal: He Was Once Jirongo’s Kijana ya Mkono During Moi Era – Luhyas are Angry, May Punish Him in 2027, Says Amemba Magufuli

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta was among senior leaders who attended and witnessed the burial of former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo at his Lumakanda home in Kakamega County.

Uhuru arrived at the burial ceremony shortly after 11.30am, while the service was ongoing. His arrival briefly interrupted the programme as mourners stood up to welcome him. The preacher paused for a few minutes before continuing with the ceremony.

The burial brought together political leaders, family members, and local residents who gathered to pay their last respects to the late politician, who was widely known for his influence in national politics and business.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi was also present, alongside several MPs, senators, and county leaders.

Political Storm Over Ruto’s Absence

Even as Jirongo was laid to rest, President William Ruto’s absence at the burial sparked political reactions.

NRA Party Secretary General Amemba Magufuli sharply criticised the President, saying skipping the burial of Jirongo was a sign of betrayal.

Magufuli claimed that during the late President Daniel arap Moi’s era, Ruto closely worked with Jirongo, describing him as his “kijana ya mkono” at the time.

“Jirongo stood with Ruto in the past. Failing to attend his burial has angered many Luhya leaders and voters. This may affect Ruto’s support in Western Kenya in 2027,” Magufuli said.

How Jirongo Died

Cyrus Jirongo died on December 13 following a tragic road accident along the Nairobi–Nakuru Highway at the Karai area.

He was travelling in his private vehicle when it was involved in a head-on collision with a passenger bus heading to Nairobi.

A post-mortem examination showed that Jirongo died from blunt force trauma, with serious injuries to the chest and abdomen. Doctors also confirmed injuries to his spine and legs.

The autopsy was conducted at Lee Funeral Home in the presence of family and government pathologists.