Where Is the Mastermind? Raila Presses State Over Kasipul MP’s Killing

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga has vehemently condemned the murder of Kasipul Member of Parliament Charles Ong’ondo Were, asserting that the killing was a politically motivated assassination and demanding that those responsible be brought to justice. 

Speaking at Were's funeral service held at Karabok Primary School in Kasipul, Homa Bay County, Raila, alongside National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, urged law enforcement agencies to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation into the death, which occurred on April 30. Raila claimed that Were had been under surveillance for an extended period prior to his death. Recalling an incident from January during the Piny Luo festival in Siaya County, Raila recounted how Were had expressed fears for his safety and sought refuge in Raila's vehicle, indicating a prior sense of threat.

"He jumped into my car, squeezed himself in, and told me that some people with ill intentions were following him," Raila told mourners, emphasising the MP's palpable fear at the time.

Raila lamented the increasing insecurity across Kenya, warning against a culture of impunity. He criticised the police for what he perceived as a focus on lower-level actors, rather than the masterminds behind the assassination. “The real author of this crime must be brought to book. This is a political assassination,” he asserted.

Referencing the historical assassination of Tom Mboya, Raila drew parallels, noting that while Nahashon Njenga was convicted, the individual he implicated as the "big man" was never apprehended. He emphasised the need to break this pattern. “That must stop. I know who killed Ong’ondo Were—what should I do with them?” Raila stated, eliciting demands for justice from the mourners.

Raila insisted that if Were was suspected of any wrongdoing, due process should have been followed, rather than resorting to violence. Investigations into the killing are ongoing, with several arrests made, including Were's driver and bodyguard. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is actively pursuing leads to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the MP's death. Speaker Wetang’ula condemned the murder and pledged Parliament’s support to the investigative agencies.

“Parliament is helping establish the MP’s movements and associations. At a time like this, we must preach peace, unity, and respect for our leaders,” Wetang’ula stated.

Beyond the immediate calls for justice, the funeral also highlighted internal dynamics within the ODM. Raila defended party members who have been critical of the Kenya Kwanza government, addressing concerns about perceived divisions within the party. Raila also offered advice to Sifuna, saying, “But Sifuna, saa zingine usiwe chungu sana (sometimes, don’t be too harsh),” alluding to Sifuna’s vocal criticism of ODM members perceived as supporting government positions.

Clarifying his cooperation with President William Ruto, Raila emphasised that it was for the greater good of the country, not a shift in allegiance. “We had a crisis last year. Kenyans must understand that we can compete fiercely but later shake hands. That’s how democracies work. Our elections have not been perfect, but Kenya is bigger than any individual. If you destroy Kenya, there will be no country left,” he said.

Reaffirming ODM’s stance, Raila called for unity within the party, urging members to remain steadfast in their principles while engaging in constructive political dialogue with the Kenya Kwanza government.