In a surprise turn in one of Kenya’s most closely watched murder cases, businessman and political figure Philip Nahashon Aroko has been released from custody and will now testify as a key state witness in the killing of Kasipul Member of Parliament Charles Ong’ondo Were.
Aroko, who was previously treated as a suspect, walked free after the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) reviewed new findings and changed his status from accused to witness.
“This marks a major breakthrough,” a senior DCI official told The New York Times on condition of anonymity. “He’s now cooperating fully with investigators.”
His release comes just weeks after the High Court overturned a bail decision granted by a lower court. On May 9, the Chief Magistrate’s Court at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) had allowed Aroko to post bail. But that decision was later blocked by Justice Kavenza, who said the investigation needed more time to follow crucial leads.
“The application is found to be merited,” the judge ruled. “Temporary detention is necessary not to punish, but to protect the integrity of the inquiry.”
Aroko remained at Kileleshwa Police Station until May 26, while detectives probed deeper into the case.
At the time, prosecutors raised concerns that releasing him could compromise the investigation. They feared Aroko might interfere with witnesses or influence others charged in connection with the MP’s death.
Charles Ong’ondo Were, the Kasipul MP, was murdered under mysterious circumstances earlier this year, sparking outrage and drawing attention from both Parliament and the public. Three people have since been charged over his killing.
Aroko, through his lawyers, has always denied any role in the crime. His legal team insisted he was being wrongly linked to the murder due to his political ties and business dealings in Homa Bay County.
“This case was never about guilt,” said a source close to Aroko. “It was about clearing his name and setting the record straight.”
The decision to turn him into a witness may provide investigators with a clearer picture of what happened the night the MP died. Prosecutors believe his testimony could be crucial in tying together the timeline and exposing the motive.
It’s still unclear what led to the change of heart by the authorities. Neither the DCI nor the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions has released an official statement detailing the new evidence or Aroko’s expected role in court.
For now, the businessman returns to his private life, though the shadow of the case still lingers.
The murder trial continues, with the next hearing set for early July.
