Kenyan MP Charles Were Assassinated in Targeted Attack, Police Confirm

NAIROBI, Kenya – Kenyan authorities have confirmed that the fatal shooting of opposition lawmaker Charles Ong’ondo Were was a “targeted and premeditated” act, sparking national outrage and renewed calls for political security.

Were, who represented the Kasipul constituency under the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), was gunned down on Tuesday night while waiting at a traffic light on Ngong Road in Nairobi. According to police, two men on a motorcycle approached his vehicle, with one suspect firing multiple shots before fleeing the scene.

“This was not a random act of violence. It was clearly targeted and carefully planned,” said Nairobi Police Commander Adamson Bungei.

The slain MP had recently raised concerns about threats to his safety, pointing to growing political tensions and rising insecurity in his home constituency. His warnings went largely unheeded, critics say.

President William Ruto condemned the killing and ordered a full investigation, while ODM leader Raila Odinga described Were as “a dedicated public servant and fearless voice for the people.”

The brazen assassination has rattled Kenya’s political class, where such killings remain rare. Investigators are currently reviewing CCTV footage and eyewitness accounts in an effort to track down the perpetrators.

Were was re-elected in 2022 and was widely respected for his active parliamentary engagement and grassroots mobilization.

The motive behind his assassination remains unclear as political leaders and civil society call for swift justice and greater protection for public officials.