What Moi Told Jirongo When He Graced His Bomet Rally While Bankrupt And Opposing The Government

A media report has revisited a defining political moment involving former President Daniel Toroitich Arap Moi and the late Lugari Member of Parliament Cyrus Jirongo at a time when Jirongo was facing financial ruin and had aligned himself with the opposition.

According to the account, the events unfolded ahead of the December 2002 General Election when Jirongo was seeking a second term after serving in Parliament from 1997 to early 2002.

His decision to support an opposition alliance placed him at odds with the government of the day and coincided with serious financial difficulties that weakened his reelection bid.

With limited resources and growing pressure from a strong rival, Jirongo turned to friends within government circles for assistance.

He was advised to seek an audience with President Moi, though the relationship between the two had cooled following the disbandment of Youth for KANU 92 and Jirongo’s shift to the opposition.

Efforts to arrange a private meeting proved difficult.

Eventually an opportunity emerged in May 2001 when President Moi attended a public rally in Bomet.

Jirongo discreetly arrived at the event accompanied by a friend, and his presence was soon brought to the attention of the Head of State.

During his address President Moi publicly remarked on Jirongo’s appearance in a manner that amused the crowd and underscored the political tension between them.

"I am being informed that Jirongo is around after escaping from the cold." Moi said leaving the crowd laughing

Despite the public exchange, the encounter marked a turning point.

In the days that followed Jirongo’s fortunes changed after President Moi appointed him to lead the Ministry of Rural Development, a move that signalled reconciliation and restored his standing within government ranks.