Born in Vihiga County and later settling in Lumakanda, Lugari Constituency, Jirongo was a prominent Tiriki elder whose death is set to be marked by a series of Luhya rituals aimed at honoring his spirit and ensuring a peaceful passage to the afterlife.

Jirongo, father of 38, died in a tragic road accident along the Nakuru–Naivasha highway. The circumstances surrounding his death have sparked questions and suspicions, prompting family members and community elders to demand clarity and prepare culturally appropriate rites. 

In line with Tiriki traditions, certain ceremonies are performed at the place of death to spiritually “collect” the deceased’s spirit and guide it back home.

Cultural sources indicate that after the body is released from Lee Funeral Home, where it has been preserved, it will first be taken to Kitale, one of Jirongo’s homesteads, before proceeding to Lumakanda for burial. 

This practice, common among the Luhya, allows every household—including multiple wives—to mourn and bid farewell, reflecting respect for the deceased and his family. 

When homes are located close together, the body may be moved at night or early morning to minimize disruption and maintain ritual propriety.

Upon arrival at his Lumakanda home, a fire vigil may be lit and maintained throughout the night. According to Luhya custom, the vigil is reserved for men, with women prohibited from approaching, as it is believed to protect the family from misfortune. 

Elders emphasized that ignoring such traditions could bring subsequent deaths or misfortune to the family. 

“These practices were passed down by our forefathers to avert calamities. They are not to be taken lightly,” a local elder explained.

Before the burial, the deceased may be taken around the homestead one final time, accompanied by song and dance, as a symbolic farewell. 

Such rituals are particularly important for elders, as they signify the community’s respect and acknowledgment of the individual’s stature within society.

Given lingering suspicions surrounding Jirongo’s death, cultural belief holds that he could be buried with symbolic items such as a torch, a panga, a knife, or a stick. 

These objects are meant to empower the deceased spiritually: the torch illuminates the path for justice, while the panga, knife, or stick represents the pursuit of those believed responsible for the death. 

Similar practices were observed during the burial of Jacob Juma, although his family opted for a Christian burial, illustrating the balance families often seek between tradition and modernity.

Funeral committee members confirmed that Jirongo’s body will be ceremonially moved from Nairobi to Kitale and then to Lumakanda. This route ensures that all family members have an opportunity to mourn collectively and honor the deceased according to tradition. 

The upcoming ceremonies highlight the community’s deep respect for cultural norms and the spiritual obligations associated with death in Tiriki and wider Luhya society.

Cyrus Jirongo’s final rites is expected to draw significant attention due to his prominence in public life and the adherence to centuries-old traditions that guide the Luhya community in honoring their elders. 

The late politician is set to be laid to rest on December 30, 2025, in Lumakanda, with ceremonies designed to celebrate his life, respect his cultural heritage, and provide closure for his family and supporters.