Nairobi, Kenya – May 7, 2025
The investigation into the brazen daylight murder of former Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were has taken a dramatic new turn, with detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) arresting two of the closest people to the late legislator—his bodyguard and driver.
The two were arrested on Tuesday, May 7, after providing conflicting statements regarding the shooting incident that occurred on Wednesday, April 30, at the City Mortuary roundabout in Nairobi. Ong’ondo was shot multiple times in the chest and arms and later pronounced dead at a Nairobi hospital.
Suspicion Falls on Inner Circle
While the driver and bodyguard were initially treated as witnesses to the murder, the direction of the probe changed after detectives noted several inconsistencies in their narratives. Both men had accompanied the MP in a white Toyota Crown on the day of the attack and emerged from the incident unscathed.
A report by KTN News revealed that the bodyguard allegedly jumped out of the vehicle in an attempt to pursue the assailant, who had fled on a motorbike. However, he reportedly failed to catch up and returned to the vehicle. Alongside the driver, he then rushed Ong’ondo to hospital—where he was declared dead on arrival.
Authorities now suspect there’s more to the story than the duo initially disclosed.
“There are serious questions about the timeline and behaviour of the bodyguard and driver. Their stories just don’t add up,” a senior DCI officer said, requesting anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter.
Intensified Investigation
The DCI has vowed to leave no stone unturned as they piece together what appears to be a targeted assassination. The latest arrests signal a shift from external threats to possible internal betrayal, raising new questions about whether the MP’s inner circle may have played a role in the murder.
Former MP Ong’ondo, known for his development work in Homa Bay County and his strong anti-corruption stance, had reportedly received threats in the weeks leading up to his death. Investigators are exploring whether the murder was politically motivated or connected to sensitive information he was allegedly preparing to release regarding land deals in western Kenya.
Public Reaction and Calls for Justice
The arrests have sparked widespread debate and concern, especially among political leaders and the public in Kasipul and beyond.
Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda, a close friend of the late MP, called for justice and transparency.
“Charles was a brave, principled leader. We must get to the bottom of this. His killers must face justice,” he said.
On social media, Kenyans are demanding swift action, with the hashtag #JusticeForOngondo trending as citizens express anger and disbelief over the new revelations.
Meanwhile, the family of the late legislator has called for calm and patience as the investigation unfolds.
“We are heartbroken but hopeful. We believe justice will be served, and the truth will come out,” a family spokesperson said.
What’s Next?
Forensic teams are reviewing ballistic evidence and CCTV footage from the area surrounding the scene of the crime. More arrests have not been ruled out, as the DCI continues to interrogate the detained bodyguard and driver.
Nairobi DCI chief Lucy Wanjiku confirmed the arrests and said updates will be made public as the case progresses.
“This investigation is active and complex. We urge the public to be patient as we do our work,” she said.
Charles Ong’ondo Were’s killing has shocked the nation, and this latest twist has added urgency to the call for truth, justice, and accountability.
