EXPLAINER: Why Natembeya Wants Jirongo Buried With A Torch
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has urged Tiriki elders to perform traditional procedures at the burial of former Lugari Member of Parliament (MP) Cyrus Jirongo, including placing a flame inside his casket.
According to Natembeya, the Tiriki customs allow for such rites to be performed when a member of their community dies in disputed or uncertain circumstances.
On Sunday, December 21, he spoke during an initiation ceremony at the residence of former Milima Ward MCA Elvis Abuka.
According to the governor, Tiriki funeral traditions mandate that in such instances, the deceased be buried with a burning torch, which represents the quest for justice.
"Cyrus Jirongo lazima azikwe na torch kulingana na kimila ya Watiriki amalizane na wa walimua" -Governor George Natembeya. pic.twitter.com/2cQdFOKAg9
— WANTAM UPDATES (@_DcpNation) December 20, 2025
Culturally, it is thought that the flame continues to “illuminate” those responsible for the death, and that when the candle is extinguished, the person responsible meets their fate.
Natembeya thinks that if these customary rules are followed during Jirongo’s burial, anyone involved in his death would not be at peace and will finally be exposed.
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The Trans Nzoia governor went on to assert that several previous Luhya community leaders who were fiercely opposed to state excesses died in similar situations.
He claimed that Jirongo’s death should not be taken lightly or ignored.
His words come only days after a team of Tiriki elders visited Jirongo’s home and cursed anyone who may have been involved in the former MP’s death.
EXPLAINER: Why Natembeya Wants Jirongo Buried With A Torch
