Family, friends, and political leaders came together on Wednesday at the Consolata Shrine in Westlands, Nairobi, to hold a requiem mass in memory of the late Kasipul Member of Parliament, Ong’ondo Were. The emotional gathering was filled with grief and reflection as mourners remembered a man who was not only a public servant but also a devoted family man and a believer who gave his time to the church and his community.
Many described him as a humble and dependable leader who always had the interests of the people of Kasipul at heart.Were’s life came to a tragic and violent end on Wednesday, April 30. He was shot and killed outside the Nairobi Funeral Home by a lone gunman who was riding a motorcycle. The news of his death shocked many across the country, with leaders and citizens alike calling for justice. During the service, his family and fellow politicians pleaded for a thorough and quick investigation into the circumstances surrounding the brutal murder.
They insisted that those responsible must be held accountable and that the truth must be brought to light. However, the solemn service took an unexpected turn when the priest, Father Deogracious Kibirangu, interrupted proceedings. He cut off Homa Bay MP Peter Kaluma, who was acting as the Master of Ceremonies and was almost done calling the remaining speakers. The priest did not hold back in expressing his frustration over reports that some visitors were distributing money to people around the church compound.
He said this act was creating disorder among mourners and should stop immediately. His firm words brought both surprise and laughter to the crowd, but his message was clear. The church, he reminded them, is a sacred space and not a place for handouts and confusion.
In another moment that caught attention, Father Kibirangu asked a man wearing a hat inside the cathedral to step out. He reminded him that it was inappropriate to wear a hat in church, stressing that the building was a place of worship, not a marketplace. After the service, it was announced that the body of the late MP would be transported to Kendu on Thursday, May 8, for an overnight vigil. The final funeral ceremony is scheduled to take place on Friday, May 9, at his home in Kachieng, Kasipul constituency, where he will be laid to rest.
Government pathologist Dr. Johansen Oduor confirmed that Were was shot five times in the chest at close range, indicating that the attack was targeted and likely planned. The police are continuing their investigation into the murder, which many believe was an assassination.
There is growing pressure on security agencies to bring justice to Ong’ondo Were’s family and the people of Kasipul.
