The late former Lugari Member of Parliament, Cyrus Shakhalaga Khwa Jirongo, was remembered on Tuesday for his extraordinary fairness and generosity to his wives, a trait that defined his personal life even as he built a larger-than-life political legacy.
Mourners gathered at his Lumakanda home in Kakamega County, including dignitaries and former President Uhuru Kenyatta, who received cheers upon arrival—a sign of respect across political lines.
Jirongo’s widely recognised spouses, Christine Nyokabi Kimani, Anne Kanini, Anne Lanoi Pertet, and Joan Chemutai Kimeto, the latter of whom he later divorced, delivered emotional tributes highlighting his equitable treatment of them all.
Anne Lanoi, dressed in traditional mourning attire with a black hat, short veil, and lace dress, recalled their 35-year journey together.
“He never favoured anyone. When he travelled, he brought all of us gifts, iPhones, and perfumes, making each of us feel special. To his children, he was a protector. To us, his spouses, he was fair and loving. We are grateful to have shared life with him,” she said, evoking emotion from the crowd.
The funeral featured Abaluhya cultural rituals, including dances and dirges, intertwined with speeches recalling Jirongo’s political life, particularly his YK’92 activism and wealth-building ventures.
Rainy skies mirrored the sombre mood, yet laughter broke through as mourners shared anecdotes of his political bravado and generosity, from supporting rural projects to patronage of AFC Leopards.
Cyrus Jirongo’s flag-draped casket was received with deep emotion at Lumakanda Primary School and his residence.
His 22 children and extended family attended, offering requiem masses earlier at CITAM Valley Road and Kitale.
While cultural rituals sparked discussion online and on-site about blending tradition with modern expressions, the funeral reflected a careful balance of reverence and celebration.
The sendoff portrayed a man whose personal and public lives were inseparable.