Police have confirmed that the fatal shooting of Kasipul Member of Parliament Charles Ong’ondo Were on Wednesday evening in Nairobi appears to have been a targeted and premeditated attack.
According to a police statement, the incident occurred at around 7:30 p.m. along Ngong Road, when the legislator’s vehicle stopped at a traffic light. A gunman, reportedly riding as a passenger on a motorcycle, opened fire before fleeing the scene with the rider.
“The pillion passenger approached the vehicle and fired shots at the passenger side before jumping back onto the motorcycle and speeding away,” the statement read. “The nature of this crime appears to be both targeted and premeditated.”
Witnesses said the assailants had been trailing the vehicle moments before the incident. Police investigations are currently underway to identify and apprehend the suspects involved.
Were was a member of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, led by Raila Odinga. In a post on X, Odinga expressed shock over the MP’s death, calling the killing a heartbreaking loss.
The lawmaker’s driver survived the attack. Officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) arrived at the scene shortly after the shooting to begin forensic analysis and gather CCTV footage from the area, which is known to have multiple surveillance cameras.
Were was rushed to Nairobi Hospital’s Accident and Emergency Unit, which was subsequently cordoned off. His body has since been moved to Lee Funeral Home.
Several leaders, including Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, DCI boss Mohamed Amin, and fellow lawmakers, visited the hospital following the incident.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula issued a statement condemning the killing, describing Were as a committed public servant and vocal advocate for his constituents.
“This callous and cowardly act has robbed the nation of a distinguished legislator who dedicated his life to democratic ideals and the service of the people,” said Wetang’ula.
The investigation is ongoing, and more updates are expected as authorities continue their efforts to bring those responsible to justice.
