Raila demands probe into killing of Kasipul MP Ong'ondo Were

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga has condemned and called for an urgent investigation into the killing of Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were on Wednesday evening.

Were, 51, was accosted by two men on a motorbike near City Mortuary roundabout along Ngong Road.

 Police said the attackers pulled up next to his white Toyota Crown at a red light, smashed the driver’s window and fired several rounds, fatally wounding him.

He was rushed to Nairobi Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.

Odinga, taking to his X platform on Thursday, May 1, said security agencies had assured him of urgent action.

“I have spoken to and received assurances from state security agencies that a prompt and conclusive investigation is to be undertaken. We cannot allow this kind of crime to take root in our country,” said Odinga.

 “I appeal for calm as we await answers from the authorities, and I assure the family and the people of Kasipul that we will pursue this matter to its conclusion,” he added.

ODM party described the killing as a tragedy and urged police to swiftly arrest those behind it.

Earlier, tributes from a section of MPs poured in, describing the slain legislator’s death as a shock.

Saboti MP Caleb Amisi said he spoke to Were hours before the shooting.

“I was with my colleague this afternoon in Parliament. We discussed a number of matters concerning the state of the country and the growing insecurity.

He told me, ‘I need a conversation with you, mambo si mazuri.’ I was shocked to learn five hours later that he had been killed. This is a deep loss to his family, his constituents and the nation,” noted Amisi.

 ODM deputy leader Abdulswamad Nassir said Were’s death was a blow to the entire country.

“Charles was a dedicated member of Parliament who served his people diligently. His death is not just a loss to Kasipul but to the entire nation. We expect the authorities to get to the bottom of this crime quickly,” he said.

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale said those responsible must face the law.

“We do not condone such acts of violence in this country. I want to make it clear that the government will follow every lead to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice. This cannot be allowed to continue.”

Police spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga said eyewitnesses saw the gunmen approach before opening fire and confirmed the shooting was targeted.

Were, serving his second term, was vice chair of the National Cohesion Committee and a member of the Committee on Blue Economy and Irrigation.

 The National Police Service said investigations are ongoing.