Gladys Wanga calls for peaceful send-off for slain Kasipul MP
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has called for a peaceful and respectful send-off of the late Charles Ong’ondo Were, the Member of Parliament for Kasipul Constituency, who was fatally shot.
In an official letter dated Tuesday, May 6, 2025, Wanga described the fatal shooting of Were as a tragic and painful loss for the county and appealed for peace during the burial scheduled for Friday, May 9, 2025, in honour of the late MP’s legacy.
She specifically urged residents across Homa Bay County, from Konyango Rabuor to the islands of Mfangano and Ngodhe and the borders of Rachuonyo, to remain calm and united as they mourn.
“This is a sad, difficult and trying time for Homa Bay County following the fatal shooting of Charles Ong’ondo Were, the Member of Parliament for Kasipul Constituency. We have lost a beloved son of our soil, and mourn we must, but I call on all of us to exercise restraint as we continue to mourn. To our great people of Homa Bay County, from Konyango Rabuor, Aora Chuodho, Nyandiwa, Mfangano and Ngodhe Islands and from our borders in Miriu-Nyakwere, Sondu River, Chabera and Ruga in Rachuonyo: let peace prevail as we mourn our son,” Wanga stated.
“I wish to call for a peaceful, dignified and befitting send-off for Hon. Charles Ong’ondo Were on Friday, May 9, 2025. Let us unite in the burial and give our beloved son, Jakowaro Wuon Ojaa, Ogai Ma Milambo, Sir Chalis and Hon. Ong’ondo Were, a peaceful and dignified farewell. May he rest in eternal peace.”
Wanga on Were’s case
Governor Wanga also appreciated the government for its speedy response, particularly the directive by President William Ruto to accelerate the investigations and bring the perpetrators to book. She noted that there had been progress, including arrests, and was optimistic about the ultimate conclusion of the case.
“We appreciate the firm directions given by the president to expedite the investigations and bring the culprits to book. We take note of the progress and arrests made and look forward to a final outcome of the matter,” she added.
In addition, Wanga emphasised the need for patience as investigations continue.
“During this difficult time, I humbly ask our people to remain calm, patient and peaceful as investigations continue. Let us honour Sir Chalis’ memory with grace, strength and unwavering hope. Ero uru kamano,”Wanga urged.
The governor, in her message, asked the people of Homa Bay to be strong as they mourn their departed leader and requested that they maintain peace and unity during this difficult time.
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The requiem mass for Were will be held on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, tentatively at the Holy Family Basilica, and later on his body will be flown to Kabunde Airstrip in Homa Bay on Thursday and transported to his home for final rites.
“The Requiem mass will be held on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, hopefully at the Holy Family Basilica. On Thursday, following the requiem mass, we will transport the body home, and the body will be flown to Kabunde Airstrip in Homa Bay before the body is transported to his home for the final rites,” the Funeral Committee, Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma confirmed.
