Nathan Wasama Masai, a former Chesikaki councillor and an aspiring Mt Elgon Member of Parliament, was reportedly shot dead by unknown attackers at his home in Tuikut, Cheptais, in Mt Elgon Constituency, Bungoma County, on Thursday, August 7.
The fatal shooting has left residents and leaders in the region in shock as police continue to await official findings into the incident.
According to reports, armed assailants allegedly stormed Wasama’s home during the night and opened fire before escaping. He sustained multiple gunshot injuries during the attack.
Images shared online after the incident appeared to show bullet wounds on his chest, although the details had not been officially confirmed by police at the time of publication.
The killing happened only a few weeks after Wasama publicly announced that he would contest the Mt Elgon parliamentary seat in the 2027 General Election. His death has now raised fresh concerns among residents over security in the area as investigations are expected to begin.
This was also the second reported attempt on Wasama’s life within the last two years. In 2024, he survived another shooting after gunmen attacked him in the Kapcheshari area. During that incident, several bullets struck the rear section of his vehicle at around 7pm, but he escaped without physical injuries.
Apart from his political ambitions, Wasama was known as a businessman and philanthropist who actively supported community activities. He was also a devoted member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and was involved in church programmes within the region.
His reported death has drawn reactions from political leaders, who have condemned the attack and called for those responsible to be brought to justice.
Kimilili Member of Parliament Didmus Barasa was among the first leaders to mourn him. He described the incident as a tragic and senseless act of violence and urged investigators to move quickly.
“It is with profound sadness that I learned of the tragic death of former Councillor Nathan Wasama, who was reportedly shot at his home in Tuikut, Cheptais, and later succumbed to his injuries,” Barasa said.
“I unequivocally condemn this senseless act of violence. No one should lose their life under such tragic circumstances, and those responsible must be identified and held accountable through the due process of the law,” he added.
Barasa also extended his condolences to Wasama’s family, friends, the people of Mt Elgon and members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, describing the deceased as a respected member of the community. He further called on the Directorate of Criminal Investigations to carry out a swift, impartial and thorough investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the killing and ensure justice is served.
By the time of publication, neither the National Police Service nor the Directorate of Criminal Investigations had issued an official statement on the shooting or announced any arrests connected to the case.
Investigations are expected to establish what happened and identify those behind the fatal attack.
