Speaker Wetang’ula to IG: Probe MP Were’s murder and report to my office
Wetang’ula said he had formally directed the police chief to ensure the case is handled swiftly but carefully.
Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has tasked the Inspector-General of Police with carrying out an urgent and thorough probe into the fatal shooting of Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were and directed that the findings be brought directly to the National Assembly.
"The Inspector-General of Police is required to enhance the security of all Kenyans, especially the security of our national leaders,” the Speaker said, noting that Were’s killing raised serious concerns about public safety.
The MP was gunned down along Ngong Road on Wednesday evening by two men riding a motorcycle. He later died from the injuries sustained in the attack.
"It is with profound deep sorrow that I notify the House of the tragic passing on of the Member for Kasipul, the Hon. Charles Ong’ondo Were, MP," the Speaker told Members.
Wetang’ula said he had formally directed the police chief to ensure the case is handled swiftly but carefully.
"I have since instructed the Inspector-General of Police to expeditiously but thoroughly investigate the incident and report the findings to the House immediately, through my Office," he said.
He described the late MP as a humble and non-confrontational man who had served with dedication.
Were was in his second term in Parliament after being first elected in 2017 and re-elected in 2022 on an Orange Democratic Movement ticket.
"The Hon. Ong’ondo Were was indeed an affable, humble, and non-confrontational person," Wetang’ula said.
The Speaker further condemned the killing, saying it reflected a loss of basic values.
"The shooting leading to his tragic demise therefore, highlights the disheartening depreciation of the cardinal virtue of respect for the sanctity of life and degradation of the principles upon which our land is founded."
At the time of his death, Were was serving in two committees—Blue Economy, Water and Irrigation, and the Select Committee on National Cohesion and Equal Opportunity.
On behalf of the entire Parliament, Wetang’ula extended condolences to Were’s family and the people of Kasipul.
"On behalf of all Members of the National Assembly, the entire Parliamentary fraternity, and indeed on my own behalf, I take this early opportunity to convey our heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Hon. Charles Ong’ondo Were, the people of Kasipul Constituency and all his relatives and friends for losing such a gallant leader."
He said Parliament would be updated with more details, including funeral plans.
"I will be providing additional information and further guidance, including on funeral arrangements for our departed colleague, as the matter unfolds."