Kasipul Member of Parliament Charles Ong’ondo Were was shot dead on Wednesday evening near the City Mortuary roundabout in Nairobi. The shocking incident happened at around 7:30 p.m., leaving many Kenyans in disbelief. According to eyewitnesses, the legislator was attacked by two unknown assailants who were riding a motorcycle. One of them got off the bike and shot him at close range.
The gunman then quickly got back on the motorcycle and fled the scene with his accomplice.Reports suggest that the attackers had been trailing Were’s vehicle for some time before they finally carried out the deadly attack. His driver, who was with him at the time, escaped unharmed.
This has raised questions about whether the attackers were specifically targeting the MP. Some Kenyans have expressed concern that such targeted killings are becoming too common in the country, especially involving people in leadership positions.Traffic police officers who were nearby are said to have witnessed the attack but were unable to stop it. It is still unclear why they didn’t intervene or give chase.
The MP was quickly taken to Nairobi Hospital by his driver and some police officers, but unfortunately, he was pronounced dead on arrival. His death has shocked both his supporters in Kasipul and many other Kenyans who knew him as a hardworking leader.
Charles Ong’ondo Were was in his second term as MP for Kasipul constituency in Homa Bay County. He was first elected in 2017 on an ODM party ticket. Before joining politics, he worked with the Ministry of Education and was known for his strong support for reforms in the education sector. He was widely respected as an educationist and was admired for his push to improve the quality of learning in public schools across the country.The motive behind his killing remains unknown.
Authorities have launched investigations, but so far, no arrests have been made. Many are demanding answers and urging the government to find and punish those responsible for this brutal murder. Leaders from both the opposition and government sides have condemned the killing and called for calm as the police carry out their investigations.
Questions remain about the safety of public servants and the rising trend of political violence. Were’s death is not only a big loss to the people of Kasipul but also to the entire nation. He leaves behind a legacy of dedication to education and public service. Many Kenyans are now waiting for justice to be served swiftly and fairly.
