Nairobi — A man accused of pulling the trigger in the murder of Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were has been detained for 30 days as police continue to unravel the plot behind the killing.
The suspect, Isaac Kuria — known to police by the alias “Kush” was arrested last week in Isebania, a small border town near Tanzania. Authorities say he was trying to slip out of the country when they caught up with him, following what they described as a multi-county manhunt.
Kuria becomes the 11th person brought to court in connection with the murder of the late legislator, who was shot dead under circumstances that have sent shockwaves through Kenya’s political circles.
Prosecutors told the Chief Magistrate’s Court at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport that investigators need more time to gather evidence and piece together the events leading up to the MP’s death. Kuria, they said, is believed to be the primary gunman.
On Friday, the same court had ordered the detention of the MP’s bodyguard, his driver, and a boda boda rider accused of transporting the suspect to the scene of the crime.
The alleged plot appears to involve a wider network. Another suspect, Phillip Aroko, remains in police custody on orders from Justice Alexander Muteti at the Milimani High Court. Aroko had filed a habeas corpus application a legal move seeking to have the authorities produce him in court, dead or alive claiming he had been detained without due process.
But in a dramatic turn, Aroko withdrew the case, telling the judge that the request was no longer necessary since he had already appeared before a magistrate.
The killing of MP Were has raised serious concerns over political violence in Kenya, with calls for thorough and transparent investigations.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations has so far not commented in detail on the ongoing inquiry, but insiders say investigators are pursuing multiple leads, including possible political motives.
Were, known for his grassroots mobilization and outspoken nature, was laid to rest this month amid emotional scenes in his Homa Bay constituency.
As the court proceedings unfold, the country watches closely, waiting for answers.
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