The burial of the late Kasipul Member of Parliament (MP) Charles Ong’ondo Were is underway at Karabok Primary School grounds in Homa Bay County.

Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula is among the leaders at the burial ceremony attended by hundreds of mourners on Friday, May 9, 2025.

“Also present are Members of Parliament, Senators, senior government officials from both national and county levels, and other dignitaries.

“The event has brought together leaders from across the political spectrum, along with family members, constituents, clergy, and friends, all gathered to honour the life and service of the late legislator.

“Hon Ong’ondo Were is being remembered as a devoted leader and public servant who championed development, education, and community empowerment in Kasipul,” a parliamentary statement on Were read.

Investigation into the murder

Police are investigating the events surrounding the murder of the legislator and have been updating the public on the progress made so far.

“Through meticulous forensic work, four suspects directly linked to the crime scene were arrested. Some of them are believed to be members of the “Mjahidini,” an organised criminal gang known for armed robberies in Nairobi’s Eastlands area. On May 5, 2025, the four suspects were presented before the JKIA Court, where investigators secured a 30-day custodial order to facilitate further inquiries. The case is scheduled for mention on June 5, 2025,” the latest update from Police Inspector General Douglas Kanja read.

The MP was killed on April 30, 2025, at around 7:40 pm while driving along Ngong Road, near the City Mortuary roundabout in Nairobi.

According to an autopsy conducted on May 2, 2025, by Chief Government Pathologist Johansen Oduor, Were sustained five gunshot wounds, all entering from the left side of his body.

Meanwhile, two bullets were recovered during the autopsy, and a third was found in the deceased’s vehicle.

“This progress demonstrates the NPS’s commitment to resolving this case with the highest standards of professionalism and diligence. We will continue to pursue all leads, analyse forensic evidence, and ensure that all perpetrators are brought to justice,” Kanja said.