Slain MP Charles Ong'ondo Were. President Wilian Ruto has called for speedy investigations into the killers. PHOTO:POOL
President William Ruto has condemned in the strongest terms the assassination of Kasipul Member of Parliament Charles Ong’ondo Were, calling it a “cowardly and heinous act” that threatens the country’s democracy, security, and national cohesion.
Speaking in Migori County at the start of his two-day development tour of the region, the President assured the nation that the government is committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice swiftly.
“We want our investigative agencies to move with speed and unravel the killers. We cannot live in a country where life and property are at the mercy of criminals,” said President Ruto.
Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo, who accompanied the President, echoed the Head of State’s sentiments and confirmed that security agencies are already reviewing CCTV footage and pursuing leads related to the murder.
He emphasized the government’s determination to ensure no stone is left unturned.
“This is not just a matter of public concern — it is a matter of justice. Our security agencies are working around the clock to identify and apprehend those responsible,” said PS Omollo.
MP Were was gunned down on Wednesday evening along Ngong Road in Nairobi by unknown assailants, an attack that has sent shockwaves through the nation and particularly within his home constituency of Kasipul in Homa Bay County.
Broad-Based Government Under Pressure
The killing has triggered political tremors, particularly within the framework of the broad-based government agreement signed between President Ruto and ODM Leader Raila Odinga. Senior ODM leaders are now openly questioning the future of their collaboration with Kenya Kwanza.
ODM National Chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, joined by Minority Whip Millie Odhiambo and Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma, issued strong statements warning that the broad-based partnership is at risk unless justice is served promptly.
“Let it be known that we did not sign an MoU for assassinations. The agreement with the Kenya Kwanza administration was about improving the lives of Kenyans, not ending them,” said Wanga.
She revealed that the slain MP had previously reported threats to his life and challenged the Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to explain what actions, if any, were taken.
“Were wrote to the police about threats to his life. What did the IG do with that information? The country deserves answers, and the family deserves justice,” she added.
Millie Odhiambo described the killing as one executed by someone “conversant with government systems” and insisted that the manner of the assassination points to a planned execution.
“The person who killed Were was precise. This was not random — it was calculated,” Millie said.
MP Peter Kaluma stated plainly that the future of ODM’s cooperation with the Kenya Kwanza government hinges on how the state handles the investigation.
“We want to see the long hands of the government in action. If we only see short hands, then our collaboration may not continue,” Kaluma warned.
Calls for Justice Grow
Other leaders, including Senator Moses Kajwang, Minority Leader Junet Mohammed, Kabondo Kasipul MP Eve Obara, and Woman Rep Joyce Osogo, all demanded immediate arrests and a transparent investigation.
“We lost a gallant leader. The investigation must not be politicized. Justice must not only be done but be seen to be done,” said Kajwang.
The leaders expressed outrage that a sitting MP could be assassinated in such a brazen manner in the capital city and stressed that the state must act decisively to reassure the country.
Ong’ondo Were’s death has heightened political tensions and raised security concerns in Kasipul Constituency and across Homa Bay County. His family, colleagues, and constituents continue to mourn a leader described as passionate, fearless, and deeply committed to his community.
President Ruto reaffirmed the government’s resolve to uphold justice and safeguard every Kenyan’s right to life and security, regardless of political affiliation.
“We will not allow criminals to hold the country hostage. Kenya is a democracy governed by the rule of law. Those who committed this heinous act will face the full force of the law,” he said.
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