Mulembe Times | May 2, 2025 | 12:55 PM EAT
The family of assassinated Kasipul MP Charles On’gondo Were has come out strongly against the Kenyan government, accusing it of failing to protect the legislator despite his repeated pleas for enhanced security following multiple threats to his life.
Addressing the press from their home in Kachien Village, Homa Bay County, on Thursday, the family said they are heartbroken—not just by the violent loss of their son, but by the fact that his warnings were ignored.
“Charles told us—and the police—that people were planning to kill him. He had seen it coming,” said a relative who spoke on behalf of the family.
Were, 43, was gunned down by unknown assailants at around 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday along Valley Road in Nairobi, near the City Mortuary roundabout. CCTV footage has revealed that he was tailed from Parliament, followed through City Hall Way, Wabera Street, and finally ambushed in traffic where a lone gunman fired four shots at close range before escaping on a motorcycle.
He was rushed to Nairobi Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.
Prior Warnings Ignored
The MP had been vocal about threats to his life, citing specific incidents in public and private forums. In February 2025, he held a press briefing at Oyugis Police Station where he narrated a harrowing experience: he had been blocked by unknown assailants while leaving a funeral in God Nyango, and the next day, he was openly threatened at another funeral in Nyatindo.
“Before I even prayed, someone said I would not speak there. The villagers were angry. What happened is with investigators,” he told reporters at the time.
In a widely circulated video on social media, Were can be heard claiming that some individuals—possibly from outside the constituency—were plotting to stage chaos during one of his events so that he could be shot by plainclothes officers or hired thugs.
“These people aren’t from Kasipul. They’re from Migori and Kisumu. Someone even named the former MCA who said they’ll wait for a public meeting, bring fake police and youth, and shoot me,” he alleged.
Despite these chilling claims, no official action appears to have been taken to enhance his security or investigate the threats.
Government Under Fire
The family’s accusations have been echoed by politicians, civil society leaders, and the public. Several elected officials visited the bereaved home and demanded swift justice and an overhaul in how security agencies handle intelligence on threats to VIPs.
“How many warnings does one have to give before they are taken seriously? This is negligence at the highest level,” said one leader.
Security officials say investigations are ongoing. Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have retrieved multiple CCTV clips, questioned the driver, bodyguard, and other witnesses, and collected spent cartridges for ballistic analysis.
A Legacy of Service
Despite the tragedy, Charles Were leaves behind a strong legacy in Kasipul. During his seven years in office, he spearheaded development in education, water access, and youth empowerment. Numerous CDF-funded school projects and boreholes stand as testament to his commitment to community service.
“He brought us real change. Schools, water, jobs—we’ve lost a servant of the people,” said a resident from Oyugis.
As the country mourns, the family and constituents of Charles Were await answers—and justice.
