: The tragic killing of Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were has left many Kenyans in shock and mourning, with tributes pouring in from across the political and social spectrum.

Among those who rushed to view his body and offer condolences was former Ramogi FM comedian Ajo Mbuta, real name George Otieno, who once contested against the slain lawmaker in the 2022 parliamentary race.

Were was shot dead by two unknown assailants on a motorbike along Ngong Road, near City Mortuary, on Monday night.

According to police sources, the gunmen fled the scene immediately after the attack. The motive behind the brazen daylight killing remains unknown, but investigations are ongoing.

The lawmaker's body was initially taken to The Nairobi Hospital, where emergency responders confirmed his death, before it was moved to the Lee Funeral Home.

Mbuta was among the first to arrive at the funeral home after hearing the tragic news.

“I’m so shocked because I heard this news while at home after work. Because I knew him, having competed with him in the 2022 Kasipul parliamentary race, I had to come and see for myself. We are shell-shocked as Kasipul constituents," Mbuta said.

Speaking to Ramogi TV, he extended his heartfelt condolences to Were's family, friends, and all residents of the five wards in Kasipul constituency—West Kasipul, West Kamagak, Central Kasipul, South Kasipul, and East Kasipul.

“Let me pass my condolences to the five wards of Kasipul for losing such a dedicated leader. He was not just any ordinary politician but a key pillar in the ODM party. I mourn with his family, relatives, and political allies.”

Despite the grief, Ajo Mbuta called for calm and patience as authorities launched investigations into the killing.

“I want to ask the people of Kasipul and all Kenyans to be patient and allow the investigators to do their work. We must give them time so that the truth behind this heinous killing comes to light,” he added.

The motive for the murder remains unclear, and no suspects had been arrested as of Tuesday morning.

The boldness of the attack, carried out in a public space and targeting a sitting Member of Parliament, has stirred fresh concerns over security for public servants and the rising wave of politically linked violence.

Were was a vocal and active member of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party.

Messages of condolence have continued to flow in from fellow legislators, county leaders, and ODM party officials, all mourning a man they described as “humble, focused, and development-oriented.”

In a related article, the Boda Boda Safety Association of Kenya (BAK) has strongly condemned the murder of Were, distancing the entire boda boda sector from involvement in criminal activities.

BAK called for swift and thorough investigations into the incident and reiterated its dedication to upholding safety and lawful behaviour within the industry.

The association also emphasised its continued collaboration with government agencies, local communities, and security personnel to root out criminal elements and improve safety across the sector.

Source: TUKO.co.ke