Winnie Odinga Reveals Deep Family Ties to Late Cyrus Jirongo as She Mourns Former Lugari MP
East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) Member of Parliament Winnie Odinga has paid tribute to former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo, hailing him as a formidable political figure whose influence helped shape Kenya’s modern political landscape.
Speaking on Saturday, December 13, 2025, in Gatanga, Murang’a County, Winnie described the late politician as an astute and impactful leader whose legacy stretched far beyond his time in elective office. She noted that Jirongo’s prominence was such that the Ksh500 note was at one time popularly nicknamed after him, underscoring his visibility and influence in national life.
“Jirongo was a strong man who, even back in the day, a Ksh500 note used to be called Jirongo. He was a member of YK and did a lot of things, including making a lot of changes to this country,” Winnie said as she eulogised the former lawmaker.
Winnie also spoke of her personal connection to the Jirongo family, revealing that she had known them since childhood. She disclosed that she went to school with Jirongo’s daughter, Elizabeth Jirongo, who passed away earlier this year.
“I would like to convey my condolences to the family of Mr Jirongo, a family I have known since I was a child. I was in school with his daughter, who also unfortunately passed away this year,” Winnie said, adding her sympathies to the people of Lugari, as well as the family and friends of the deceased.
Elizabeth Jirongo died on March 10, 2025, after a short illness, marking a difficult year for the family.
Cyrus Jirongo died in the early hours of Saturday morning following a road accident along the Nakuru–Naivasha highway. The incident occurred at around 3am in the Karai area, where the former MP was involved in a head-on collision while travelling from Nakuru towards Nairobi.
According to preliminary reports, Jirongo was driving a Mercedes-Benz when the vehicle collided with an oncoming car owned by Climax Company. He sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
President William Ruto led national tributes, describing Jirongo as a close friend and a rare personality whose life was defined by resilience, courage and generosity.
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of my friend, former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo,” the President said in a statement.
Reflecting on Jirongo’s character and journey, Ruto praised his determination and refusal to be constrained by adversity.
“Jirongo was a relentless go-getter, a seasoned businessman and a consummate politician who refused to be defined, let alone defeated, by life’s challenges,” the President added.
Jirongo’s death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the political divide, with many remembering him as a bold, influential figure whose imprint on Kenyan politics will endure.
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Winnie Odinga Reveals Deep Family Ties to Late Cyrus Jirongo as She Mourns Former Lugari MP