Geoffrey Mosiria, the Nairobi County Chief Officer for Citizen Engagement and Customer Service, has publicly offered to provide a traditional torch for use during the burial rituals of the late politician Cyrus Jirongo. The gesture, shared through his official social media platforms on Monday, December 29, 2025, came alongside a message of condolence and reflection as preparations continue for Jirongo’s final send-off.
Mosiria expressed sympathy with the family, acknowledging the weight of the moment and affirming his support through prayers. His message struck a personal and emotional tone while also addressing public discussion surrounding burial customs linked to unresolved deaths.
“My condolences to the family of our departed leader as he is laid to rest tomorrow. God knows how it happened, and to the family, I keep you in my prayers,” Mosiria said.
Beyond condolences, Mosiria directly responded to conversations about the use of a torch during the burial rites. He indicated that he was ready to provide one if needed, adding a personal remark that drew attention across social media platforms.
“Naskia mnataka tochi pale kwa mazishi, kujia hii yangu—situmii siku hizi tangu nitoke mazingira! Poleni sana, the family of Cyrus Jirongo,” he added.
The statement quickly became part of a wider national debate that blends tradition, grief, politics, and public accountability, especially given the unresolved questions surrounding Jirongo’s death.
Why are leaders calling for a torch in Jirongo’s burial?
Mosiria’s remarks followed similar statements made by Moses Kuria, the former President William Ruto’s economic adviser, who earlier offered to buy a torch for the burial. Speaking during a requiem mass held at CITAM Valley Road on Saturday, December 27, 2025, Kuria framed the gesture as symbolic rather than accusatory, while insisting on the importance of clarity around Jirongo’s death.
“We need to have a thorough investigation into anything questionable. It does not presume guilt on anyone to have a thorough investigation. I will offer to buy the torch,” Kuria said.
The torch reference draws from certain cultural beliefs where individuals who die under unclear circumstances are buried with a lit torch, believed to reveal or punish those responsible. These beliefs, while not universally practiced, remain deeply rooted in some Kenyan communities and often resurface during high-profile deaths.
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya also voiced support for the idea, referencing traditions associated with the Tiriki community. His remarks emphasized cultural interpretation rather than legal outcomes, though they intensified public discussion.
“Na mimi naambia Watiriki, kwa sababu Mtiriki mtu wao akikufa kwa njia ambayo haijulikani, wanazikwa na torch. Hiyo torch inawekwa makaa na inamulika, inaenda kuwamulika wale ambao walimaliza marehemu.”
“Wakati inazima, yule aliua pia anazima. Tunazika Jirongo, lakini tunazika na torch. Aki ya Mungu, kama kuna mtu aliguza Jirongo, ataenda,” Natembeya said.
Saboti Member of Parliament Caleb Amisi echoed similar sentiments, stating that burying Jirongo with a torch would symbolically ensure justice, even as legal processes continue.
Can investigations replace superstition in seeking justice?
Not all voices in the public arena agree with the symbolic approach. Former Westlands Member of Parliament Fred Gumo openly challenged the idea that traditional rituals could uncover the truth behind Jirongo’s death. Speaking during a memorial service attended by senior government and security officials, including National Police Service Deputy Inspector General Gilbert Masengeli, Gumo urged restraint and rationality.
Gumo stressed that while emotions are understandable, speculation and superstition could distract from proper investigative work. He emphasized that only credible, professional investigations can provide answers that the family and the country deserve.
According to Gumo, public pressure driven by symbolism risks undermining institutions tasked with uncovering facts. He encouraged Kenyans to allow investigators the space and time required to establish what happened, without political influence or cultural assumptions shaping conclusions.
As the burial of Cyrus Jirongo approaches, the conversation continues to reflect broader tensions in Kenyan society between tradition and modern justice systems. While leaders like Mosiria and Kuria frame the torch as a cultural and symbolic gesture, others insist that accountability must remain grounded in evidence and due process.
By Modester Nasimiyu