Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Shot Dead in Nairobi
Kasipul Member of Parliament, Charles Ong’ondo Were, was tragically shot and killed in Nairobi, just two months after publicly stating that his life was in danger. The fatal attack occurred on Wednesday evening, close to the City Mortuary roundabout, shocking the nation and igniting calls for justice and improved security.
Eyewitnesses at the scene reported that the MP was ambushed by two armed men on a motorcycle. These attackers had been trailing his vehicle before one of them dismounted and shot the legislator at close range. The incident took place around 7:30 pm, in an area that is known to be under heavy surveillance and guarded with multiple CCTV cameras.
A senior police officer in Nairobi confirmed the attack. “He was shot near the City Mortuary Roundabout. He was rushed to Nairobi Hospital — that is all I know,” the officer stated. He added that the family would be best placed to offer more information on the matter as investigations continue.
Despite quick efforts to save him, Mr. Were succumbed to his injuries at Nairobi Hospital’s Accident and Emergency Unit. Authorities immediately cordoned off the area as senior leaders and security officials gathered at the hospital. Among those present were Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja, Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) chief Mohamed Amin, and several Members of Parliament.
His body was later transferred to Lee Funeral Home. According to sources, his driver survived the attack and is reportedly cooperating with police to aid the ongoing investigation.
The motive behind the killing remains unclear, but law enforcement agencies have already launched a manhunt for the two gunmen. Detectives attached to the DCI arrived at the crime scene within two hours and began piecing together evidence from CCTV footage and witness accounts.
This brazen attack has raised many questions, especially considering the location and timing of the incident. The City Mortuary roundabout, where the MP was gunned down, is known for its tight security and frequent police presence. The fact that such a violent act was carried out in broad view of surveillance cameras has left many Kenyans deeply concerned.
News of the assassination spread rapidly, sending shockwaves through Parliament and the public. Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma recounted that Mr. Were had left the chambers shortly after 8:00 pm. Kaluma added that the parliamentary session was still ongoing when he received a call from Suba South MP Millie Odhiambo, informing him of the tragic news.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula expressed his sorrow and outrage in a public statement. “This callous and cowardly act committed under the cover of night has robbed the nation of a distinguished legislator, a fearless advocate for his constituents, and a man deeply committed to the democratic ideals and service to the people he represented,” he said.
Speaker Wetang’ula’s remarks reflect the mood of many who knew the late MP. Colleagues described him as outspoken, principled, and dedicated to championing the rights of the people of Kasipul. His death has not only left a void in Parliament but also in the hearts of those who looked to him for leadership and representation.
The fact that the MP had previously claimed his life was under threat adds a troubling dimension to the incident. Two months prior to his death, Mr. Were voiced concerns over his safety, though it remains unclear whether any formal protection measures were put in place. That forewarning now casts a shadow over the government’s ability to safeguard its elected officials.
Security experts and human rights advocates are now calling for a full and transparent investigation. They argue that such a high-profile killing should not go unresolved and that the public deserves answers. The role of surveillance footage, witness testimonies, and forensic analysis will be crucial in identifying the perpetrators and bringing them to justice.
In the meantime, Kenyans are left to grapple with the shock and grief of losing a public servant in such a brutal and public manner. Social media has been flooded with tributes, demands for accountability, and calls for tighter security measures for lawmakers.
The government has assured the public that every effort will be made to solve this case swiftly. “We will not rest until those responsible are held to account,” a senior DCI officer stated during a media briefing.
For now, the focus remains on honoring the legacy of Charles Ong’ondo Were and ensuring that justice is served. His sudden death is a grim reminder of the dangers public figures face and the urgent need for vigilance in protecting them.
As investigations continue, many hope that the truth will emerge soon — and that those behind this senseless act will face the full force of the law.
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Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Shot Dead in Nairobi
