A somber mood has engulfed Kasipul constituency and the wider Kenyan political landscape following the brutal assassination of Member of Parliament Ong’ondo Were. The lawmaker was gunned down on the evening of April 30 near the City Mortuary roundabout along Ngong Road, shortly after leaving Parliament.
Were, aged 46, had been in Parliament for most of the day, participating in legislative business before departing at around 6:15 p.m. Less than an hour later, at approximately 7:30 p.m., he was ambushed while inside a white Toyota Crown vehicle. According to police reports, a motorcycle carrying two individuals pulled up beside his vehicle. The pillion passenger reportedly fired multiple shots at the MP before fleeing with the rider.
Despite efforts by the vehicle’s driver and another passenger to rush him to Nairobi Hospital, Were was pronounced dead on arrival.
Leaders from across the political divide have expressed shock and outrage. Majority Leader Junet Mohamed, who confirmed he had spent the afternoon with Were, called for urgent investigations. The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) also issued a statement mourning their party member and demanding justice.
Were had recently voiced concerns about threats to his life, even warning constituents during a funeral that certain individuals were targeting him. “If I die, please drape me in ODM colours,” he had said, in a chilling foreshadowing of events.
Born in Oyugis, Homa Bay County, Were was known for his soft-spoken demeanor and humor. He rose from humble beginnings, attending local schools before earning a business degree and pursuing a master’s in procurement. Before politics, he held executive roles in multiple firms, including Benga Group Holdings and Victoria Cleaning Services.
Elected to Parliament in 2017 and re-elected in 2022, Were served on the Departmental Committee on Blue Economy and Irrigation. He was a respected figure both in business and politics.
The National Police Service has confirmed that the murder appears to have been targeted and premeditated. Investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend those responsible for this shocking crime.
