Cyrus Shakhalanga Jirongo, born on March 21, 1961, was a prominent figure in Kenya’s political landscape, known for his rapid rise in wealth and influence during the KANU era.
The former Lugari Member of Parliament passed away in a fatal road accident on December 13, 2025.
Early Life and Education
Jirongo, who described himself as a son of a pastor, attended Mang’u High School from 1978 to 1981. He pursued higher studies in Business Administration at the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom and graduated from Egerton University in 1986.
Jirongo's Family
His known children include Kimani Waiyaki, Naisenya Waiyaki, Lemaiyan Waiyaki, Prestone Jirongo, Mercy Jirongo, Judy Jirongo, Sharon Jirongo, and June Jirongo.
Political Rise
Jirongo first gained national attention in the early 1990s as the leader of Youth for KANU ’92 (YK’92), a group that mobilized support for President Daniel arap Moi during Kenya’s first multiparty elections in 1992.
Under his leadership, YK’92 became well-known for aggressive grassroots campaigns and substantial fundraising, solidifying Jirongo’s reputation as a powerful political strategist.
His influence reached beyond campaign work. In 1991, he became chairman of AFC Leopards Football Club, boosting his national profile. In 1997, Jirongo won the Lugari parliamentary seat, marking his first direct entry into elective politics. By 2002, he had been appointed Minister for Rural Development by President Moi.
Later Political Career
After losing his parliamentary seat in 2002, Jirongo briefly stepped back from politics. He returned in 2007, reclaiming the Lugari seat under the Kenya African Democratic Development Union, becoming its sole Member of Parliament from 2008 to 2013.
He expressed interest in the presidency in 2013 but later contested the Kakamega senatorial seat, losing to Boni Khalwale while supporting Raila Odinga’s presidential bid. In 2017, he ran for president under the United Democratic Party, receiving a small share of the vote.
Ahead of the 2022 elections, his party joined the Azimio la Umoja coalition, maintaining its presence in national politics.
Cyrus Jirongo’s life was marked by early wealth accumulation, strategic political influence, and a series of electoral comebacks that reflected both his resilience and enduring role in Kenya’s political arena.
Despite keeping a low profile after losing the 2022 election, Jirongo recently threw his support behind DAP-Kenya candidate Seth Panyako in the Malava by-election, actively campaigning in the days leading up to the polls on November 27.
