Cyrus Jirongo: The man western Kenya loved but failed to crown

When the name of the late Cyrus Jirongo was mentioned in his Western Kenya backyard, many instantly associated it with one of the most influential political figures the region ever produced on the national stage.

For decades, his name evoked power, wealth, daring and political audacity. Yet, deep among the masses, there lingered a quiet wish that he would have done more—enough to firmly cement himself as the undisputed regional kingpin.