Kenyan Lawmaker Assassinated in Nairobi Attack

In a brazen daylight attack, Kenyan Member of Parliament Charles Ong'ondo Were was shot dead by assailants on a motorcycle as he traveled in his vehicle on Ngong Road. Eyewitness reports indicated that the attackers had been trailing his car before one of them dismounted and fired at close range. The police characterized the incident as "targeted and predetermined," raising alarms about the increasing violence against public officials in Kenya.

Were, who had served as a legislator for two terms representing the Kasipul constituency, had previously expressed fears for his safety, citing threats made against his life. Following the shooting, his driver and bodyguard rushed him to Nairobi Hospital, where he was pronounced dead upon arrival.

Local authorities, including President William Ruto, have called for a thorough investigation. Ruto insisted that justice be served for the crime, while fellow parliamentarians and leaders, including opposition figure Raila Odinga, condemned the assassination as a loss of a brave and dedicated public servant. Odinga lamented that Were was "mercilessly gunned down by an assassin," showcasing the deep political tensions and threats faced by those in the political arena in Kenya.

As investigations progress, the incident raises serious questions about the safety of lawmakers and the deteriorating security situation in the country.