Days after sharp criticism directed at the Kenya Kwanza administration, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has toned down, urging calm and unity ahead of the burial of the late Kasipul Member of Parliament Charles Ong’ondo Were.
Were was fatally shot under circumstances that have stirred up the political class.
In earlier remarks, Governor Wanga openly accused President William Ruto’s administration of failing to protect the MP, who she said had repeatedly raised concerns about his safety.
Further, she disclosed that the late legislator had reported death threats to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja but received no protection.
Wanga, who is also the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), national chairperson, appeared to question the party’s ongoing cooperation with the Ruto-led United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
She said that the party agreed to work with the government, but “this is not what we signed up for.”
Also Read: Postmortem Confirms Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Was Shot 5 Times
Gladys Wanga Tones Down
However, in a press release issued on Tuesday, May 6, the governor called for peace and restraint as investigations into Were’s assassination continue.
Additionally, she praised President William Ruto for issuing directions to expedite the investigation and bring those responsible to justice.
“We have lost a beloved son of our soil, and mourn we must, but I call on all of us to exercise restraint as we continue to mourn. We appreciate the firm directions given by The President to expedite the investigations and bring the culprits to book.
“We take note of the progress and arrests made and look forward to a final outcome of the matter,” stated Wanga.
Wanga also called on residents across Homa Bay County, from Konyango Rabour to Ngodhe Islands, to give the late MP a dignified and peaceful send-off on Friday, May 9, 2025.
“I wish to call for a peaceful, dignified and befitting send off for Hon. Charles Ong’ondo Were on Friday 9th May 2025.
“Let us unite in the burial and give our beloved son, Jakowaro, Wuon Ojaa, Ogai Ma Milambo, Sir Chalis and Hon. Ong’ondo Were, a peaceful and dignified farewell. May he rest in eternal peace,” she added.
Also Read: Ruto Takes Action After Assassination of Charles Were
Latest Updates on the Death of Charles Ong’ondo Were
Four suspects including William Imoli Shighali, Juma Ali Haikai, Douglas Muchiri Wambugu, and David Mihigo Kagame, were arraigned at the JKIA Law Courts on Monday, May 5, in connection with the assassination.
However, the court granted police an additional 30 days to detain the suspects at Ruaraka, Muthaiga, Capitol Hill, and Kilimani police stations to allow for further investigations.
According to investigators, Shighali, Haikai, and Kagame were apprehended together in the Roysambu area of Nairobi.
Also, detectives disclosed that they had traced the route of a motorcycle allegedly used to follow the MP from Parliament Buildings, through Wabera Street, to the Nairobi Funeral Home roundabout, where he was ultimately gunned down.
On the other hand, Chief Government Pathologist Dr. Johansen Oduor confirmed that the late MP died from excessive bleeding after sustaining five gunshot wounds to the chest and arms.
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