Shock, grief, and outrage gripped the political class Wednesday night following the brazen killing of Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were, who was shot dead in Nairobi in what police describe as a “targeted and predetermined” attack.
Leaders from across the political divide poured in their tributes, describing the late MP as a humble, gallant and dedicated servant of the people.
William Ruto, President
May God grant the family and the people of Kasipul the strength to bear the loss of Hon. Charles Ong’ondo Were. We urge the police to conduct a thorough investigation into this incident. Those responsible must be held to account.
Ann Waiguru, Kirinyaga Governor
"Shocked to learn of the tragic loss of Kasipul MP, Hon. Charles Ong’ondo Were. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the people of Kasipul who have lost a leader in such a painful manner. Such acts of violence have no place in our society. I urge the relevant authorities to move swiftly and ensure that those behind this heinous act are brought to justice without delay."
Raila Odinga, Former Prime Minister Leader
We have lost a gallant son of the soil! Hon Charles Ong'ondo Were is no more; mercilessly and in cold blood, gunned down by an assassin in Nairobi this evening. Rest in Peace Hon Sir Charles Ong'ondo Were! Dhi gi kwe Ogai ma Milamb
Aden Duale, Health cs
"I am deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic death of Hon. Charles Ong'ondo Were, the MP for Kasipul. I had the privilege of serving with him in Parliament, where he always advocated for the people of Kasipul with clarity and conviction. Those who planned and executed this heinous crime must face the full force of the law. Such brutality has no place in our society and must be condemned in the strongest terms possible. To his family, friends and the people of Kasipul, I extend my heartfelt condolences. May you find peace in the legacy he leaves behind and strength in knowing that his service was not in vain."
Beatrice Elachi, Dagoretti North MP
I extend my deepest condolences to the family and friends of my colleague, Hon. Charles Ong’ondo Were, Kasipul MP, on his untimely death. May God comfort you and be your strength during this time.
Amason Kingi, Senate Speaker
"The fatal shooting of Kasipul Member of Parliament, Charles Ong'ondo Were, along Ngong Road in Nairobi this evening has left the entire family of Parliament of Kenya and indeed the whole country deeply shocked and pained."
Okiya Omtatah Okoiti, Busia Senator
"I am deeply shocked and outraged by the cold-blooded murder of Hon. Charles Ong’ondo Were, the Member of Parliament for Kasipul, who was gunned down along Ngong Road. This barbaric act is not only a personal tragedy, it is a glaring reflection of the growing lawlessness and insecurity that has engulfed our nation.
That a sitting legislator, who had publicly expressed fears for his life, could be assassinated in the heart of our capital city is utterly unacceptable. It points to a system that is either complicit or broken.
No one, regardless of their politics or past deserves to be hunted down and killed. We must not normalize violence. I call upon the relevant authorities to launch a thorough, swift, and independent investigation into this killing, and to bring those responsible to justice."
Hassan Joho, Mining CS
"I'm deeply saddened by the untimely death of my dear friend, Hon. Charles Ong’ondo Were. His light, courage and unwavering commitment in serving the people of Kasipul and Kenya at large will never be forgotten.
Rest well my brother, your legacy lives on in every life you so selflessly touched."
