BUNGOMA, Kenya — Former Chesikaki councillor and Mt Elgon parliamentary hopeful Nathan Wasama Masai has been shot dead after armed attackers reportedly stormed his home in Tuikut, Cheptais, Bungoma County.
The attack occurred on Thursday night, with reports indicating that the assailants opened fire on Wasama several times before fleeing the scene.
Wasama sustained multiple gunshot wounds and later succumbed to his injuries.
Police had not issued an official statement confirming the circumstances surrounding the shooting by the time of publication, and no arrests had been announced.
Wasama had recently declared his intention to contest the Mt Elgon parliamentary seat in the 2027 General Election, putting him among the local political figures positioning themselves ahead of the polls.
His killing comes about two years after he survived another reported assassination attempt.
In 2024, unknown gunmen allegedly ambushed Wasama in the Kapcheshari area and opened fire on his vehicle. Several bullets reportedly struck the rear of the car, but he escaped the attack unharmed.
The latest shooting has raised fresh concerns about the security of political aspirants and residents in Mt Elgon, an area that has previously experienced episodes of insecurity and political violence.
Beyond politics, Wasama was a businessman and philanthropist and was actively involved in the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church and community initiatives.
News of his death triggered an outpouring of grief and condemnation from political leaders and members of the community, with calls for investigators to establish the motive and bring those responsible to justice.
Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa condemned the killing, describing it as a senseless act of violence and calling for a thorough investigation.
“It is with profound sadness that I learned of the tragic death of former Councillor Nathan Wasama, who was reportedly shot at his home in Tuikut, Cheptais, and later succumbed to his injuries,” Barasa said.
“I unequivocally condemn this senseless act of violence. No one should lose their life under such tragic circumstances, and those responsible must be identified and held accountable through the due process of the law.”
Barasa conveyed his condolences to Wasama’s family, friends, the people of Mt Elgon and members of the SDA Church, describing the former councillor as a respected member of the community.
The legislator also called on the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to conduct a speedy and impartial investigation into the killing.
“I call upon the Directorate of Criminal Investigations to conduct a swift, impartial and thorough investigation to ensure justice is served,” he said.
The circumstances surrounding the attack, including the identity and motive of the assailants, remained unclear as investigations were expected to begin.
Residents and local leaders have urged security agencies to move quickly to establish what happened and whether the killing was connected to Wasama’s political ambitions or other disputes.
The death comes as political activity gradually intensifies ahead of the 2027 General Election, raising renewed concerns over the safety of politicians, aspirants and members of the public as campaigns and political alignments gather momentum.
Authorities are expected to provide further details as investigations into the killing progress.
