NAIROBI, Kenya May 1 – The National Police Service has opened investigations into the targeted killing of Kasipul Member of Parliament Charles Ong’ondo Were, who was gunned down Wednesday night along Ngong Road in Nairobi.
Nairobi Regional Police Commander George Sedah said the nature of the crime appeared to be both targeted and premeditated.
“The nature of this crime appears to be both targeted and premeditated,” said Muchiri Nyaga, Police Spokesman in a statement, “The National Police Service condemns this heinous and senseless crime and will spare no effort in investigating the matter.”
According to police, the shooting occurred at around 7:30 p.m. near the City Mortuary roundabout, where a white Toyota Crown vehicle—carrying the MP and two others—had stopped at a red traffic light.
A motorcycle with two riders pulled up alongside the car. The pillion passenger reportedly dismounted, walked up to the passenger side where Were was seated, and opened fire before fleeing the scene with the rider.
The vehicle’s driver and another male passenger, who escaped unhurt, rushed the injured MP to Nairobi Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
The Office of the Inspector General of Police confirmed that preliminary investigations suggest the attack was meticulously planned and executed. No arrests had been made by Thursday afternoon.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula condemned the killing and demanded a comprehensive investigation, directing that findings be presented to Parliament.
“The loss of Hon. Were is not just a tragedy to his family and the people of Kasipul, but a great loss to the nation,” Wetang’ula said. He urged security agencies to move swiftly to establish the motive and apprehend those responsible, adding that Parliament’s leadership would remain engaged and in contact with the bereaved family.
The motive behind the assassination remains unclear, though various theories have surfaced online. Some social media users have linked the killing to recent violence in Kasipul constituency, alleging that Were was behind attacks on political rivals. In posts and videos circulating since Wednesday night, several residents accused the MP of orchestrating violence and threatened retaliation.
Others speculate that the MP may have been targeted for his outspoken criticism of senior government officials and fellow politicians, often voiced in public forums.
Police have pledged a thorough and impartial investigation and assured the public that those behind the killing will be brought to justice.
