National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula has called for an immediate and comprehensive investigation into the brutal killing of Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were, terming the incident a “cowardly act” that demands urgent action from the country’s criminal justice system.
Speaking to journalists at Lee Funeral Home on Thursday, where he led a delegation of lawmakers to pay their last respects to the late MP, Wetangula expressed outrage at the fatal shooting and called for swift justice.
“This is an unfortunate and heinous act. It must be met with the full force of the law,” he said, urging investigative agencies to leave no stone unturned in bringing those responsible to justice. “The country cannot tolerate such barbaric acts against elected leaders or any Kenyan. We demand accountability and quick arrests.”
MP Charles Ong’ondo Were was shot dead on Wednesday evening in what police have described as a targeted attack. While investigations are ongoing, the Speaker emphasized that such acts threaten the nation’s democratic fabric and security.
In response to the tragedy, Wetangula also stressed the urgent need for reforms within the police service, particularly the units tasked with protecting legislators. He proposed enhanced training and better equipping of officers assigned to Members of Parliament, citing rising concerns over their preparedness and response capacity.
“Parliament will work closely with the National Police Service to strengthen the capacity of officers assigned to protect MPs,” he said. “Lawmakers must also fully utilize their assigned security for their own safety.”
Wetangula’s comments come amid growing calls from various quarters for improved security for public servants and a revamp of intelligence gathering to prevent such deadly incidents.
The body of the slain MP will be airlifted to Homa Bay County on Thursday, ahead of his burial on Friday at his rural home in Kachien Village, Kasipul Constituency. The funeral is expected to draw senior government officials, political leaders, and thousands of mourners from across the country.
As the nation mourns, Wetangula’s call underscores a critical moment for the country to reassess the safety of its leaders and the overall integrity of its justice system.
