By Kamadi Amata
Speaker of the National Assembly and Chairperson of the Parliamentary Service Commission (PSC), Rt. Hon. Moses Wetang’ula, has led Members of the 13th Parliament in mourning the late Hon. Charles Ong’ondo Were. He has also called for enhanced security measures for lawmakers and expedited, transparent investigations into the MP’s sudden and mysterious death.
“Together with my Senate counterpart, Hon. Amason Kingi, I led a delegation of Members of the 13th Parliament from both Houses in celebrating the life of our departed colleague, Hon. Charles Ong’ondo Were, at the Consolata Shrine in Westlands, where his memorial service was held ahead of his burial this Friday,” said Speaker Wetang’ula.
He extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and urged them to draw strength from their faith during this difficult time.
As Chairperson of the PSC, Speaker Wetang’ula issued a firm directive urging Members of Parliament to prioritize their personal security and comply fully with security protocols.
“I want to reiterate this: going forward, I encourage each Member of Parliament to submit their personal security details for vetting. This will help us assess the adequacy of current arrangements and enable us to offer better protection,” he emphasized.
In a significant move to support ongoing investigations, Wetang’ula announced that Parliament will provide internal surveillance records related to Hon. Were’s final day at Parliament.
“To support the investigation into this tragedy, I have instructed the Clerk of Parliament, Mr. Samuel Njoroge, to compile all CCTV footage covering Hon. Were’s movements within Parliament — from his arrival at the gym at 6 a.m. to his departure at 7 p.m. This footage will be instrumental in assisting the police with their inquiries,” said Wetang’ula.
The memorial service drew a distinguished delegation of national leaders, highlighting the profound impact of Hon. Were’s passing.
“In attendance were several key leaders, including Nairobi Governor H.E. Johnson Sakaja, Homa Bay Governor H.E. Gladys Wanga, Kisii Governor H.E. Simba Arati, Energy Cabinet Secretary Hon. Opiyo Wandayi, Members of Parliament, and other dignitaries,” he added.
The death of Hon. Were has sparked national grief and renewed calls for urgent reforms to ensure the safety and well-being of public servants. The Parliamentary Service Commission is now expected to fast-track reviews and implement robust security measures for Parliamentarians.
