Kenyan Opposition MP Charles Were Shot Dead in Nairobi
Kenyan MP Charles Were was shot dead in Nairobi, described by police as a targeted assassination, sparking calls for a thorough investigation.
Kenyan opposition MP is killed in 'targeted' shooting
Associated Press
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Overview
Charles Ong'ondo Were, a Kenyan opposition MP, was assassinated in Nairobi, shot at close range by a gunman on a motorcycle. The attack occurred while he was stopped at a traffic light. Police labeled the shooting as targeted and premeditated. President Ruto has called for a thorough investigation and accountability for those responsible. Were, a member of the Orange Democratic Movement, had previously expressed concerns about threats to his life. His killing has shocked fellow legislators and reignited discussions about political violence in Kenya, where such incidents are relatively uncommon.
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Analysis
- The shooting of opposition MP Charles Ong'ondo Were in Nairobi is described by police as a targeted and premeditated assassination, raising concerns over political violence in the country.
- President William Ruto has called for a thorough investigation into the shooting, emphasizing accountability for those responsible and stating that it is crucial for maintaining public safety and trust in authorities.
- The political landscape following the assassination reveals tensions and collaborations, as Ruto previously appointed members of Were's party to the cabinet, indicating a shift from intense opposition to a possible unity government.
Articles (6)
FAQ
The search results do not provide specific details about the nature or timing of threats Charles Were claimed to face, though he reportedly raised concerns about his safety two months before his death based on a video report description.
Opposition leader Raila Odinga described Were as a 'gallant son of the soil' but no further official statements from Odinga or specific opposition responses are detailed in available reports.
Police have called the attack 'targeted and premeditated' and President Ruto has demanded accountability, but no concrete developments in the investigation are reported yet.
The killing follows a March 2025 political pact between Ruto and Odinga, though Kenya had seen reduced tensions after 2022-2023 anti-government protests that left dozens dead.
Were served on the Departmental Committee on Blue Economy and Irrigation during his parliamentary tenure.
History
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