Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has called on Kenya’s political leaders to uphold tolerance, unity, and genuine multiparty democracy as the foundation for national progress, urging them to honour democratic ideals through respectful competition of ideas rather than division.
Speaking on Tuesday during the funeral of former Lugari Member of Parliament Cyrus Jirongo in Lumakanda, Kakamega County, Kenyatta eulogised the late politician as a courageous, generous, and unifying leader who firmly believed in dialogue and cooperation across political divides.
“Jirongo respected multiparty democracy and believed in working with people from different political backgrounds,” he said.
“If we truly want to honour him, we must also respect that democratic space.”
The former Head of State said Jirongo’s political life offered important lessons to current and future leaders, particularly on the need to embrace tolerance and inclusivity in a multiparty system.
He cautioned against politics built on hostility and destruction, noting that such approaches undermine national cohesion.
“If we say we are in a multiparty system, we must live by it,” Kenyatta said.
“Let people compete on ideals and ideas, not by destroying what others have built.”
Kenyatta described Jirongo’s death as a major loss not only to his family and the people of Western Kenya, but also to the nation at large.
He praised the former legislator’s commitment to peace, unity, and dialogue, saying these values were increasingly important in Kenya’s evolving democratic landscape.
The former president noted that Jirongo consistently demonstrated the ability to engage leaders from across the political spectrum, placing national interest above partisan considerations.
According to Kenyatta, this spirit of cooperation is what Kenya needs to strengthen its democracy and promote sustainable development.
Kenyatta's call follows earlier statements by Junet Mohammed and Gladys Wanga accusing him of interfering in ODM’s internal affairs, alleging that the move was aimed at dividing the Oburu Odinga-led party.
“We have respect for President Uhuru Kenyatta. However, if you want to destroy the ODM Party by sending wheeler-dealers to us, then we reject your plans. We will not take that matter lightly, as we will deal with it decisively,” Wanga said.
Speaking at the same funeral, ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna extended a formal apology to former President Uhuru Kenyatta following remarks made by party members Junet Mohammed and Gladys Wanga that targeted the former Head of State.
“I want to apologise for the insults directed at you by certain members of ODM who have overlooked the work you did to assist Raila in his bid for the presidency,” Sifuna said.
Sifuna noted that the party comprises both thoughtful and misguided members.
“On behalf of those who acted thoughtlessly, I apologise for the remarks directed at you. It is important to remember the loyalty and sacrifices that shaped our political journey,” he added.
The funeral ceremony drew a cross-section of national and regional leaders, reflecting Jirongo’s wide influence in politics and business.
Among those present were Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, several governors, members of parliament, and other senior government officials.
Speakers at the ceremony remembered Jirongo as an astute businessman and a steadfast advocate for peace and unity. Many described him as a leader who used his influence to bridge political and social divides, leaving behind a legacy rooted in democratic ideals and national cohesion.
