BREAKING: Powerful politician shot dead in suspected assassination

DDM News

A Kenyan opposition lawmaker has been killed in what authorities describe as a targeted assassination carried out in the heart of Nairobi, the bustling capital city of Kenya, is renowned for its vibrant culture and rich history.

As the largest city in the country, it serves as an influential hub for politics, finance, and technology within East Africa.

Nairobi’s landscape is a fascinating mix of modern skyscrapers and lush green spaces, such as the iconic Uhuru Park.

It’s also famous for the Nairobi National Park, a unique wildlife sanctuary where visitors can witness giraffes and lions roaming freely against the backdrop of a city skyline.

The city’s diverse population and thriving markets contribute to a lively atmosphere, making it a captivating destination for both tourists and locals alike..

Charles Ong’ondo Were, the Member of Parliament representing Kasipul constituency, was gunned down on Wednesday evening by unknown assailants on a motorcycle.

According to police reports, Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that the attackers had been trailing his vehicle before striking near a busy roundabout along Ngong Road.

One of the gunmen allegedly dismounted from the motorcycle and shot the MP at close range before fleeing the scene.

A police spokesperson, Muchiri Nyaga, stated that the incident bore the hallmarks of a premeditated killing, raising serious concerns about the motive behind the act.

“This was not a random act of violence. The nature of this crime appears to be both targeted and predetermined,” Nyaga said in an official statement.

The slain MP had recently raised alarms regarding threats to his life, according to Kenyan media outlets, although no official protective measures were reported to have been taken in response.

Despite the late-hour shooting, Were’s driver and bodyguard, who both escaped the attack uninjured, managed to rush him to Nairobi Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The site of the attack is a high-traffic zone often manned by traffic officers and secured with surveillance cameras. The audacity of the perpetrators has raised questions about the current state of urban security and police visibility.

Shortly after the incident, senior police officers and forensic investigators arrived at the crime scene to begin formal investigations. Authorities have confirmed that efforts are underway to analyze CCTV footage and trace the suspects.

President William Ruto, in a public address, condemned the killing and directed the police to leave no stone unturned in bringing the assailants to justice.

“The murder of a sitting MP is unacceptable. Those responsible must be brought to justice,” the president declared.

Members of Parliament who visited the scene expressed shock, grief, and concern over the increasing threats facing public officeholders in the country.

Speaker of Parliament Moses Wetang’ula paid tribute to Were, describing him as a bold and principled legislator who served his constituency with distinction.

“This is a devastating blow. Hon. Were was fearless and distinguished in his legislative duties,” Wetang’ula stated.

Charles Were was a member of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), a major opposition party led by veteran politician Raila Odinga.

Odinga strongly condemned the killing, describing it as a cold-blooded political assassination meant to silence critical voices in governance.

“We have lost a gallant son of the soil. He was mercilessly taken from us by an assassin,” Odinga said.

He added that Were’s death was not just a loss to his party but to the entire nation.

Raila Odinga, who lost the 2022 presidential election to William Ruto and initially rejected the outcome due to alleged irregularities, later entered into a political accord with the president.

The arrangement led to a “broad-based government” in which some opposition figures accepted cabinet positions.

The killing of Were has reignited debates over the safety of lawmakers, political tensions in Kenya, and the effectiveness of the country’s security infrastructure.

As investigations continue, the nation awaits answers and justice for a legislator many describe as a fearless champion for his people.

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