United Opposition Piles Pressures On Ruto to Provide Answers in Mysterious Cyrus Jirongo’s Death

Pressure is mounting on President William Ruto to order a transparent and independent investigation into the death of former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo, following growing doubts about the circumstances of the fatal road crash that claimed his life.

Leaders from the United Opposition have raised serious concerns, saying many questions surrounding Jirongo’s death remain unanswered days after the accident. 

Speaking in Nairobi on Tuesday after visiting Jirongo’s family home in Gigiri, opposition figures urged the government to act swiftly and openly to establish the truth.

The leaders, led by Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) Deputy Leader Cleophas Malalah, said the public deserves clarity, especially because of conflicting information emerging from official investigations. 

Jirongo died in a collision involving his Mercedes-Benz and a Climax Company passenger bus along the busy Nairobi–Nakuru Highway on the night of December 13.

Malalah questioned why investigators have not released full details about the passengers who were on board the bus at the time of the crash. 

According to police reports, the bus was carrying dozens of passengers heading to western Kenya, yet only the driver’s account has been publicly discussed.

“We are asking very simple questions,” Malalah said. 

“Who were the passengers on that bus? Where are they? Why has no one else come forward to give an account of what happened that night?”

Opposition leaders argued that the lack of passenger statements has fueled suspicion and public anxiety. They insisted that identifying witnesses and recording their testimonies is essential before Jirongo is laid to rest.

The concerns come as the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) continues to probe the crash. Investigators have acknowledged making an earlier error regarding the registration number of Jirongo’s vehicle, later issuing a correction. 

While the DCI apologized for the mistake, critics say the slip has only deepened mistrust in the investigation.

Opposition figures are now calling on President Ruto to personally ensure the probe is thorough and free from political influence. They say only an independent process will restore public confidence and give Jirongo’s family the closure they deserve.

Other leaders, including former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, echoed the call for transparency. Kalonzo described Jirongo as a bold and principled leader and said his death should not be treated as an ordinary case.

“His family deserves the truth, and Kenyans deserve answers,” Kalonzo said in a message shared online. “This matter must be handled openly and professionally.”

Investigators are reviewing CCTV footage from fuel stations and nearby locations along Jirongo’s route on the night of the crash. 

Statements are also being recorded from individuals who interacted with him earlier that evening, as police attempt to piece together his final movements.