NAIROBI, Kenya – Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, alongside a delegation of Members of Parliament, visited the home of the late Kasipul legislator, Hon. Charles Ong’ondo Were, to express heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family following his shocking death last week.
Wetang’ula described the murder as a “cowardly and senseless act,” calling on investigative agencies to act with urgency and precision in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
A United Parliamentary Family: Condolences and Commitment
During the visit, the Speaker assured the family of Parliament’s full support in ensuring Hon. Were receives a dignified farewell.
“As a parliamentary family, we conveyed our collective sorrow,” Wetang’ula posted on X (formerly Twitter).
He added that the show of unity extended beyond sympathy—it was a commitment to stand by the family and see the justice process through.
Earlier in the day, Wetang’ula led fellow MPs in viewing the late MP’s body at Lee Funeral Home, a somber moment that underscored the emotional weight Parliament is carrying.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, May 7, at the Consolata Shrine in Westlands, followed by burial in Homa Bay County on Friday, May 9, 2025.
“Do Not Fear to Live”: A Call for Vigilance and Courage
Even amid mourning, the Speaker addressed a grim reality: this is not the first life Parliament has lost in recent times.
He reminded his colleagues not to let fear define their lives, urging them instead to stay alert and prioritize personal security. “Do not live in fear, nor fear to live,” he said—a poignant message as lawmakers confront growing insecurity.
Wetang’ula also reflected on his final interaction with the late MP, noting that he had seen him active on the House floor just hours before the tragic incident. That memory, fleeting but powerful, adds another layer of grief to this national loss.
Demanding Justice, Rebuilding Trust
With rising concerns about the safety of public officials, this assassination has renewed scrutiny on how well leaders are protected—and how quickly justice is served when they’re not.
The brutal killing has not only shaken the halls of power but also prompted larger conversations about violence, impunity, and the weight of public service.
As the country prepares to lay Hon. Charles Ong’ondo Were to rest, his death is more than a tragedy—it’s a call to action.
Speaker Wetang’ula’s message is clear: while we mourn, we must also demand justice, safeguard those who serve, and never allow fear to silence leadership.
