Nairobi, Kenya – A Kenyan Member of Parliament, Charles Ong’ondo Were, representing the Kasipul Kabondo constituency, was fatally shot by an unidentified attacker along Ngong Road in Nairobi on Wednesday evening. The incident has triggered widespread condemnation and urgent calls for a swift and thorough investigation.
The opposition Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, to which Mr. Were belonged, issued a statement expressing their “shock and sadness” at the killing, describing it as a “tragic loss.”
“Hon. Were was in Parliament the better part of the day and left at 6:15 pm after participating in the business of the day,” the party stated.
While police have not yet released an official statement, security officials have confirmed that an investigation is underway. Authorities are reportedly reviewing CCTV footage from the vicinity of the shooting.
Mr. Were was serving his second term in the National Assembly and was known for his strong advocacy for education and devolution. He previously held the position of chairperson of the parliamentary education committee, where he championed increased funding for public schools in marginalized areas.
Notably, Mr. Were had publicly stated two months prior to his death that his life was under threat.
His assassination has ignited outrage among fellow lawmakers and across the Kenyan political landscape, with numerous leaders demanding accountability and enhanced security measures for elected officials.
Concerns regarding the safety of politicians in Kenya have been escalating in recent months. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua recently alleged that he was being trailed by security agents, raising concerns about potential political intimidation.
The motive behind Mr. Were’s killing remains undetermined. However, this high-profile incident has reignited serious questions about the security of public figures in Kenya and the capacity of authorities to ensure their protection.
Mr. Were was a prominent and active member of the ODM party, deeply involved in grassroots mobilization efforts in the Lake Victoria region.
His assassination marks one of the most significant killings of a sitting Member of Parliament in Kenya in recent years.
