Nairobi, Kenya – May 1, 2025: President William Ruto has directed the National Police Service (NPS) to launch a full investigation into the shocking murder of Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were.
In a statement shared on X, the President expressed deep sorrow over the death of the legislator and demanded that the assailants behind the fatal attack be brought to justice.
“May God grant the family and the people of Kasipul strength to bear with the loss of Hon. Charles Ong’ondo Were. We urge the police to conduct a thorough investigation into this incident. Those responsible must be held to account,” Ruto said.
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Assassination Near City Mortuary Roundabout
MP Were was gunned down on the evening of April 30 at a red light near City Mortuary roundabout along Ngong Road. The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) legislator was returning from Parliament when he was ambushed by two gunmen riding a motorcycle.
Read also:Shock as Kasipul MP Charles WERE Shot Dead by Motorcycle Gunmen in Nairobi
The attackers pulled up alongside his Toyota Crown, and one of them fired several close-range shots at the passenger side where Were was seated. The gunman then jumped back onto the bike and sped off.
Image: File photo of the late Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were
Driver Escapes, Police Launch Probe
The MP’s driver and another passenger survived the attack and rushed him to Nairobi Hospital, where he was declared dead on arrival. Nairobi Regional Police Commander confirmed the attack happened around 7:30 p.m. and described it as “targeted and premeditated.”
In a statement, the National Police Service vowed to leave no stone unturned in investigating the assassination and ensuring accountability.
Previous Threats to His Life
It has also emerged that MP Were had raised concerns over threats to his life. In February 2024, he publicly claimed that political violence was on the rise in Kasipul and alleged that non-residents from Kisumu and Migori were being used to destabilize the area.
The late MP, who was serving his second term in office, was a respected educationist before venturing into politics. His killing has shocked the nation, with leaders across the political divide calling for immediate justice.
