Charles Ong’ondo Were, a member of parliament representing Kasipul County in Kenya, was tragically shot dead in Nairobi on April 30, 2025. The incident occurred in a suspected assassination as he was targeted by gunmen on a motorcycle. This shocking event has raised significant concerns about political violence and security in the country.
Details of the Incident
The attack took place along Ngong Road, a busy area often monitored by traffic police and equipped with security cameras. Eyewitness accounts suggest that the assailants had been following Were’s vehicle before one of them dismounted from the motorcycle and shot him at close range. Despite the immediate response from his driver and bodyguard, who rushed him to Nairobi Hospital, Were was pronounced dead upon arrival.
Background and Context
Charles Ong’ondo Were was serving his second term in parliament as a member of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), a party led by veteran politician Raila Odinga. Just two months prior to his assassination, Were had expressed concerns about threats to his life, indicating that he believed there were “hired goons” plotting against him, which he attributed to local political rivalries.
His fears were not unfounded, as he had previously voiced concerns about increasing violence and unrest during public events in his constituency.
Reactions to the Assassination
The news of Were’s death has sent shockwaves through the political landscape in Kenya. President William Ruto has called for a thorough investigation into the assassination, emphasizing that those responsible must be held accountable. Fellow legislators and political figures have expressed their outrage and sorrow over the incident. Parliament Speaker Moses Wetang’ula described Were as a “fearless and distinguished” legislator, and his killing has been labeled as devastating by many in the political community.
Raila Odinga, the leader of the ODM, condemned the assassination, stating that Were was “mercilessly and in cold blood, gunned down by an assassin.” Odinga’s remarks highlight the broader implications of this violence, suggesting that it reflects a troubling trend in Kenyan politics where political figures are increasingly at risk.
Investigation and Security Concerns
Following the shooting, senior police officials and homicide detectives quickly arrived at the scene to begin investigations. The police spokesperson indicated that the nature of the crime appeared to be both targeted and predetermined, raising questions about the security measures in place in areas that are typically monitored by law enforcement.
The attack has reignited discussions about the safety of politicians in Kenya, particularly those who are vocal about their political beliefs and who may be seen as threats by rival factions. The presence of security cameras in the area where the shooting occurred may aid in identifying the assailants, but the effectiveness of these measures in preventing such attacks is now under scrutiny.
The assassination of Charles Ong’ondo Were marks a dark chapter in Kenya’s political history, underscoring the dangers faced by public figures in a climate of political tension and violence. As investigations continue, the hope is that justice will be served and that measures will be taken to enhance the security of politicians and citizens alike.
