Kisumu County is once again on the spotlight for all the wrong reasons after the brutal killing of Hannington Were, son of former Matungu MP David Were, in Tom Mboya Estate.
The incident has left residents shaken, raising urgent questions about whether Kisumu is a city of hope or a hotbed of terror.
Hannington, aged 39, was attacked in the early hours of the morning by assailants riding a motorcycle. Witnesses say the attackers struck him with a blunt object before fleeing with his mobile phone.
A close friend who was with him managed to escape to seek help, but upon returning, found Hannington lying fatally injured.
Former MP David Were expressed anguish over the loss, describing his son as a man of promise.
“This tragedy has shaken our family to the core. We have lost a hardworking young man full of ambition and hope. It is heartbreaking to see insecurity rob families of their future,” he said.
The family’s grief is compounded by repeated brushes with violence. Just five months ago, the family buried their firstborn who was also attacked by a landlord in Nairobi. In 2023, Were himself survived an attack in Mamboleo, which he believes was an attempt on his life.
His wife, Jane Were, voiced her sorrow over the recurring violence.
“We are overwhelmed by grief. First my husband was attacked, now my son has been killed. These killings are tearing families apart and leaving us in despair,” she lamented.
The killing has sparked outrage among Kisumu residents, who are questioning the effectiveness of security measures. Violent crimes have been reported even in broad daylight, leaving many fearful of what the future holds.
Were emphasised the urgency of addressing insecurity. “I survived my attack by sheer luck. Now my son has fallen victim. How many more lives must be lost before decisive action is taken?” he asked.
Police have pledged to intensify patrols and crack down on criminal gangs, but skepticism remains high.
For grieving families and fearful residents, Kisumu stands at a crossroads, whether it will reclaim its identity as a city of resilience or continue to be haunted by the specter of terror.
