A massive crowd of mourners and political leaders has gathered at Karabok Primary School in Homa Bay County for the burial service of Kasipul MP Ong’ondo Were, who was tragically killed in a brazen shooting on April 30, 2025.
The solemn ceremony is being attended by top national figures, including National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, with former Prime Minister Raila Odinga expected to join later. The burial service is taking place under tight security, given the high-profile nature of the event and the unresolved circumstances surrounding the MP’s murder.
Were was shot dead by a lone gunman riding a motorcycle near City Mortuary along Ngong Road in Nairobi. The assailant fled immediately, prompting a swift investigation. So far, ten suspects have been arrested and arraigned in connection with the killing, according to police sources.
The MP’s body will later be laid to rest at his Kachien rural home, where a night vigil was held on the eve of the burial, Thursday, May 8.
Earlier on Thursday, a large crowd turned out in Oyugis Town to receive the body, as a funeral procession led by Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga made its way from Kabunde Airstrip. The convoy passed through several towns—Homa Bay, Kendu Bay, Kadongo, Sikri, and Oyugis—causing business to come to a standstill as residents lined the roads to pay their respects.
Local leaders, including Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma, joined the procession, expressing sorrow and solidarity with the Kasipul community. “As the ODM party, we are united in grief and ask for God’s comfort during this difficult time,” said Governor Wanga during a stopover.
At around 5 p.m. on Thursday, the body arrived at Agoro Sare Primary School, where long queues formed as mourners viewed the body. Security personnel maintained order as thousands gathered to bid farewell to their MP.
The choice of Karabok Primary School grounds for the burial ceremony was made to accommodate the overwhelming number of mourners, including lawmakers from across the political divide, clergy, and community elders.