A group of lawmakers has called on opposition leader Raila Odinga to endorse one of the late Charles Ong’ondo Were’s children or family members to continue the development projects he initiated in Kasipul Constituency.
The appeal was made during Were’s burial on Friday, May 9, 2025, in a bid to prevent a political scramble for his seat.
The late MP was fatally shot in Nairobi on April 30, shortly after attending a parliamentary session. His assassination has sparked concerns over possible political motives, with some leaders suggesting the killing was linked to his seat.
Leading the calls, Kipkelion West MP Hilary Nyiganet Arap Kosgei, who is also Were’s brother-in-law, urged Raila to support one of the deceased’s sons to take over the leadership role.
“Your Excellency, as a family, we ask for your support. Those behind these killings want the seat, but we must shame them by ensuring the legacy remains within Were’s family,” Kosgei stated.
Lamu Woman Representative Muthoni Murabu echoed the sentiment, humorously offering to mentor one of Were’s sons if elected. “Were had two sons close to my age,” she said, drawing laughter from mourners. “Baba, if you endorse his son for Parliament, I’ll personally guide him.”
Nyamira Woman Representative Jerusa Momanyi added to the appeals, pledging to support the family and even jokingly offering her daughter’s hand in marriage to one of Were’s sons.
The late legislator, survived by two wives and six children, was laid to rest following a postmortem that revealed he died from multiple gunshot wounds.
His burial brought together leaders who emphasized the need to protect his legacy by keeping his development agenda alive through his family.
As political tensions loom over his successor, the push for a family-backed candidate seeks to honor Were’s contributions while deterring any violent power struggles.
By PeopleDaily