In a shocking incident that has sent ripples through the political landscape of Kenya, police have confirmed that the fatal shooting of Charles Were, a member of parliament for the Kasipul constituency, was both targeted and premeditated. The incident occurred at approximately 7:30 p.m. on the bustling Ngong Road in Nairobi, as Were’s vehicle came to a halt at a traffic light.

Witnesses recount a chilling scene when a gunman, riding as a passenger on a motorcycle, approached Were's car. In a swift and calculated manner, the shooter opened fire on the passenger side of the vehicle before fleeing the scene with the motorcycle driver. Law enforcement officials reported, “The nature of this crime appears to be both targeted and premeditated,” underscoring the alarming implications of such an attack on a public figure.

Political assassinations are a rare occurrence in Kenya, a nation known for its relative stability in a region scarred by civil strife. The murder of Were not only raises concerns about the safety of politicians but also escalates tensions within an already polarized political environment.

Were was affiliated with the opposition Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, led by the prominent and seasoned politician Raila Odinga. This comes in a backdrop of heightened political dynamics, especially after Odinga's defeat in the 2022 presidential elections against incumbent William Ruto, a result he has since contested citing irregularities.

In the wake of the tragedy, Odinga expressed profound grief, stating on X, “Were is no more; mercilessly and in cold blood, gunned down by an assassin in Nairobi this evening.” The loss of Such a significant political figure raises urgent questions about security measures for lawmakers and the increasing risks they face amid Kenya’s complex political landscape. 

With the authorities launching an investigation into the fatal shooting, the nation watches closely, hoping for answers and accountability in a case that has struck at the heart of Kenya's democratic process.