In one of the most surprising political turnarounds in Kenyan history, former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo went from the brink of losing his seat to becoming a Cabinet Minister, all in a matter of days.
The secret? A bold appearance at a rally hosted by President Daniel arap Moi.
In 2001, Jirongo faced financial troubles that threatened his parliamentary position. Friends urged him to seek the President’s help, and through National Security Intelligence Service chief Wilson Boinett, a meeting was arranged.
Despite being seen as a Kanu rebel leaning toward the opposition, Jirongo did not hesitate.
On May 21, 2001, he attended Moi’s rally in Bomet, arriving humbly—without a car and driven by his friend, Titus. Spotting him in the crowd, Moi quipped from the podium: “Nasikia Jirongo ako hapa ametorokea baridi” (“I hear Jirongo has arrived coldly”), drawing laughter from attendees.
What seemed like a light-hearted moment quickly turned into a political victory. Within days, Jirongo was appointed Cabinet Minister for Rural Development, cementing one of the most remarkable comebacks in Kenyan politics.
Jirongo’s story remains a testament to political resilience, showing that strategic moves, timing, and courage can turn even the direst circumstances into triumph.