KITALE — The conspicuous absence of Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya from the final send-off of veteran politician Cyrus Jirongo has been unraveled, revealing that the county chief is nursing a broken leg following a road accident over the Christmas festivities.

For days, speculation had swirled regarding the Governor’s whereabouts as political heavyweights descended on Western Kenya to honor the late Lugari MP. The silence was broken on Monday during a memorial service in Bungoma, where Natembeya’s representative, CECM Pius Gumo, confirmed the incident.

A Christmas Misfortune

According to Mr. Gumo, the Governor sustained a fracture to his leg in an accident that occurred on Christmas Day. While details of the crash remain tightly guarded, officials confirmed that Natembeya is currently immobile but in stable condition.

“I have brought the condolence message of Governor George Natembeya. He got involved in an accident during Christmas, and he broke his leg; that is why he could not be here,” Gumo told mourners, ending days of hushed rumors in the region.

The Governor’s last public appearance was on Christmas Eve at the Wamalwa Kijana Teaching and Referral Hospital. In a gesture that now reads like a parting gift before his enforced break, he waived medical bills for detained patients totaling KES 6 million (approx. $46,000), allowing families to celebrate the holidays at home.

The 'Tiriki Rites' Advocate

Natembeya’s absence is particularly heavy given his role in the unfolding drama surrounding Jirongo’s burial. The former MP died in a grisly road crash on December 13 near Naivasha, sparking allegations of foul play. In the wake of the death, Natembeya emerged as a fierce advocate for traditional Tiriki burial rites.

• The Torch & The Panga: Natembeya had publicly supported burying Jirongo with symbolic items—a torch to 'light the way' to his killers and a weapon to avenge his spirit.
• The Void: His inability to attend today’s burial in Lumakanda leaves the push for these controversial cultural rites without its most senior political backer.

“He would have loved to be here to console the family and recognize Jirongo as a leader who championed the interests of the lowly citizens,” Gumo added, delivering the Governor’s tribute by proxy.

A Tense Farewell

As Cyrus Jirongo is laid to rest today in Lugari, the atmosphere remains charged. The late politician, a defining figure of the KANU era and the 'YK92' movement, leaves behind a complicated legacy. With investigations into his death still open and key leaders like Natembeya sidelined by injury, the funeral has become a flashpoint for both grief and political maneuvering.

While the Governor recovers, his office has assured residents that county operations continue uninterrupted. However, for the thousands gathering in Lumakanda today, the missing presence of the region's outspoken Governor is a stark reminder of the fragility of the moment.