The former Lugari MP, Cyrus Jirongo, is set to be buried soon, and one thing that keeps coming up is the torch ritual. This tradition has drawn attention amid suspicions that he was murdered.
The torch burial ritual has its roots in Kenyan customs. It was notably used during the burial of slain businessman Jacob Juma in 2018. In this tradition, the deceased is buried with a lit torch and sometimes a knife.
The torch is believed to allow the spirit to hunt for those responsible for the death. The knife is said to help the spirit confront the wrongdoers. According to the tradition, the hunt ends when the torch goes out. This is often believed to happen alongside misfortune or death for the culprits.
Some of Jirongo’s allies, who suspect foul play in his death, have said they are open to performing the ritual. Politician Moses Kuria even offered to buy the torch, saying it is important to uncover the truth about Jirongo’s death. The family, however, has not officially commented on whether the ritual will happen.
Questions about the circumstances of Jirongo’s death remain. Former Senator George Khaniri raised concerns about the Mercedes-Benz Jirongo was travelling in, which had 12 airbags that did not deploy.
He wondered if the car was stationary or intentionally placed to be hit. Khaniri also noted the lack of eyewitness accounts from the bus involved, which reportedly had more than 60 passengers.
Leaders like Martha Karua also highlighted Jirongo’s plans before his death. She said he had expressed concerns about his safety and wanted to revamp his security team, but tragedy struck before he could act.
The torch ritual, while symbolic, shows a strong desire among Jirongo’s allies to seek justice and uncover the truth surrounding his death.
By Vivian K.