Raila Odinga Steps In as Investigation into Charles Ong’ondo Were’s Killing Unfolds
ODM party leader Raila Odinga has stepped in to seek answers following the tragic murder of Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were, who was gunned down in Nairobi under mysterious circumstances. In a public address, Raila confirmed that he had engaged state security agencies and received updates regarding the ongoing investigation.
Odinga condemned the killing in the strongest terms, calling it a shocking and deliberate act. “The gangland-style execution of Hon. Were in broad daylight, at the heart of the capital city, is shockingly barbaric and must be condemned with total contempt,” he stated during a press briefing. His remarks reflect the widespread outrage and grief that has followed the murder of the two-term legislator.
Speaking to the media, Raila revealed that he had personally contacted security officials to demand a comprehensive inquiry into the incident. He noted that investigators assured him they were taking the case seriously. “I have spoken to and received assurances from state security agencies that a prompt and conclusive investigation in this matter of national interest is to be undertaken,” Raila said.
He urged Kenyans to remain calm and allow the investigative process to run its course. “I appeal for calm as we await answers from the authorities,” he added, emphasizing the need for trust in law enforcement institutions during such turbulent times.
Raila also extended his condolences to the bereaved family and the people of Kasipul constituency. “I take this opportunity to offer my sincere condolences to the family of Hon. Charles Ong’ondo Were and the people of Kasipul and entire Homa Bay County for losing their son,” he said with visible sorrow.
The shocking incident occurred around 7:30 p.m. near the City Mortuary roundabout along Ngong Road in Nairobi. Eyewitnesses reported that two men riding a motorcycle trailed the MP before one of them dismounted and fired shots at close range, fatally wounding him. The assailants fled immediately after the attack. First responders rushed Were to The Nairobi Hospital, but he was pronounced dead on arrival.
Suspicion that the attack was premeditated has deepened after it was reported that Were’s driver was left unharmed. This detail, combined with the precise timing of the ambush, suggests that the gunmen may have had prior knowledge of his movements.
Earlier that day, the late MP had attended a session in the National Assembly. ODM officials confirmed that he left Parliament at 6:15 p.m., just over an hour before the attack. This timeline has prompted questions about surveillance, coordination, and possible political motivations behind the murder.
Further complicating the case is a troubling revelation that Were had previously spoken about threats to his life. Although he did not publicly identify any suspects, he reportedly confided to close associates that he believed he was being targeted. His death has brought these warnings into sharp focus.
Adding to the speculation, Rangwe MP Lilian Gogo, who is also Were’s sister-in-law, claimed the murder was rooted in “toxic politics” in Homa Bay County. “His death is rooted in toxic politics, both within Kasipul and neighboring constituencies,” she alleged. Her comments have drawn attention to growing political tensions in the region and potential rivalries that may have escalated beyond verbal confrontations.
Were, who was first elected to Parliament in 2017 and re-elected in 2022, had built a reputation as a committed public servant. His sudden death has sparked grief across party lines, with leaders from all sides calling for justice and protection of elected officials. Many lawmakers and citizens alike have demanded that the government identify the culprits and hold them accountable.
Security agencies are now under pressure to act swiftly. The public, along with national leaders, is watching closely as the investigation unfolds. Raila’s involvement has further amplified the importance of resolving the case with transparency and urgency.
“This is not just a constituency matter—it is a national concern,” Raila emphasized. “No public servant should live in fear. We must get to the bottom of this crime.”
His intervention has reassured many that the matter is being treated with the gravity it deserves. As investigations continue, there remains a strong call for unity, calm, and a steadfast demand for justice.
The tragedy has also reopened conversations around political violence and the safety of public officials in Kenya. While the motive behind the killing remains unclear, the need for systemic action to prevent similar incidents in the future is more urgent than ever.
In the coming days, attention will remain fixed on updates from both the police and Raila Odinga, who has promised to remain engaged until the matter is fully resolved.
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Raila Odinga Steps In as Investigation into Charles Ong’ondo Were’s Killing Unfolds
