The streets of Nairobi were rocked by tragedy on Wednesday evening after Kasipul Member of Parliament Charles Ong’ondo Were was fatally shot in a brazen motorcycle gun attack, sparking concerns over escalating political tensions in Kenya.
Eyewitnesses on Ngong Road, a heavily trafficked area known for frequent police patrols and CCTV surveillance, described a chaotic scene as gunmen riding on a boda boda closed in on the MP’s vehicle. Police confirmed that the attackers had trailed the lawmaker’s car before one dismounted and fired multiple shots at close range.
The lawmaker’s bodyguard and driver, both unharmed, rushed him to Nairobi Hospital. Unfortunately, Were was declared dead upon arrival.
Authorities are treating the incident as a targeted assassination. “The nature of this crime appears to be both targeted and predetermined,” said police spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga.
Were, a staunch opposition voice from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), had reportedly raised alarm over personal safety threats in recent weeks. His murder has cast a harsh spotlight on the adequacy of security arrangements for public officials.
President William Ruto has called for immediate action, stating, “Those responsible must be held to account.”
The killing triggered an outpouring of sorrow from political leaders across the spectrum. Speaker of Parliament Moses Wetang’ula expressed heartbreak over the loss, remembering Were as a “fearless and distinguished” leader and calling the act “devastating.”
ODM party leader Raila Odinga issued a powerful statement of grief and fury: “We have lost a gallant son of the soil!” He added, “Were was mercilessly and in cold blood, gunned down by an assassin.”
As investigations continue, Kenyans are left grappling with grief and fear, hoping for justice in a nation where political violence remains a chilling threat.