In brief
The shocking murder has raised concerns about political violence and safety in the country.
A Kenyan lawmaker was fatally shot in a brazen attack in Nairobi on Wednesday evening, reigniting fears over political safety in the nation. Charles Were, a member of the Orange Democratic Movement, was targeted while stopped at a traffic light, according to police reports. Witnesses described how an assailant dismounted from a motorcycle and fired at the passenger side of Were's vehicle before escaping with the driver of the motorcycle.The motive behind this “targeted and premeditated” attack remains unclear, as police officials, including spokesman Muchiri Nyaga, stated it is too early to draw conclusions. In response to the tragedy, President William Ruto urged law enforcement to conduct a meticulous investigation into the crime. "Those responsible must be held to account," he expressed in his statement to the media.Sadly, despite quick action taken by those in the vehicle, Were was pronounced dead upon arrival at Nairobi Hospital. He was serving his second term in Parliament, having been re-elected in 2022. The slain lawmaker was a key ally of Raila Odinga, Ruto’s main political opponent. Odinga condemned the shooting, likening it to a “gangland-style execution” and denouncing the brutal nature of the attack.As frustrations with the government have escalated following protests in response to a new tax increase, the political landscape of Kenya appears increasingly volatile. President Ruto, who has faced criticism over economic challenges, previously claimed that the tax was essential for addressing the country's heavy debt.Abdi Latif Dahir contributed to this report. Eve Sampson covers international news as part of the Times Fellowship program for emerging journalists.
