A somber mood engulfed the countryside home of the late Kasipul Member of Parliament, Charles Ong’ondo Were, following his shocking assassination on Wednesday, April 30 in Nairobi.

Grief-stricken family members, speaking from their Kachien village home in Homa Bay County, criticized the government for failing to respond to repeated security threats the late MP had reported. According to the family spokesperson, Were had raised concerns about his safety on several occasions, even reporting specific threats to police—but no action was taken.

“This was a preventable tragedy,” the spokesperson lamented, calling for accountability from security agencies.

Emotions ran high as political leaders and residents gathered to offer condolences. The leaders urged the government to expedite investigations and ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice swiftly.

As residents mourn, they also reflect on Were’s lasting legacy—numerous Constituency Development Fund (CDF) projects in education and water infrastructure that transformed lives over his seven-year tenure.

The government has yet to issue a formal statement regarding the circumstances surrounding Were’s assassination.