As Homa Bay County prepares to bury the late Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were, Governor Gladys Wanga has come out strongly to clear her name. Wanga has denied claims linking her to the arrest of politician Philip Aroko over Were's murder. She urged the public to stay calm and allow investigative agencies to complete their work. Speaking at Kabunde Airstrip on Thursday, May 8, Wanga addressed mourners as she received the body of the slain MP. Her words were clear and direct. “I heard some saying the governor has done this and that. As the governor of Homa Bay, I have no role in the investigation,” she said. The governor insisted her focus was solely on ensuring the late MP receives a dignified sendoff. “All we are planning here is to give our brother a good sendoff. And all we are asking our people is, let us remain peaceful. Let us give our brother a dignified sendoff. Let’s leave the investigation to the respective agencies,” she added. Wanga Distances Herself From Aroko Woes as Tensions Rise Over MP's Murder Governor Wanga’s remarks come amid growing speculation in Homa Bay over the arrest of Philip Nahashon Aroko. Aroko, who has been linked to gold scamming activities, was named as a person of interest in the ongoing investigation into Ong’ondo Were's murder.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) issued a statement on Wednesday, urging Aroko to surrender to the nearest police station immediately.
“We urge Philip Nahashon Aroko to present himself to law enforcement authorities without delay. His cooperation is critical to the progress of this investigation,” the DCI statement read.
Despite these developments, Wanga dismissed claims suggesting she had influenced Aroko’s arrest. Instead, she praised the investigative agencies for their commitment and urged residents to stay united.
“I want to thank the people of Homa Bay for remaining calm, very peaceful, and for being very patient. Tomorrow, we have a duty of giving the MP an honourable, dignified sendoff,” she said.
Wanga further called on the public to avoid spreading rumors or engaging in acts that could disrupt peace. “We allow the investigative agencies to do their work. They have made progress, which we appreciate. So that is our message, let’s give the MP a dignified sendoff and shame the devil,” she added.
The slain MP will be laid to rest on Friday, May 9, at his home in Kasipul constituency. His murder has shocked the community and sparked calls for justice. Slain MP Ong'ondo Were who was gunned down on April 30, 2025, at the City Mortuary roundabout in Nairobi. [Photo: Courtesy] Police Step Up Probe into Were's Murder The murder of Charles Ong’ondo Were on April 30, 2025, has left many unanswered questions. Police have intensified investigations, with Aroko emerging as a key figure in the probe. Authorities believe he could provide vital information that might unlock the mystery behind the killing.
According to sources, Aroko’s connections in political and business circles have drawn attention to his potential role. However, he has yet to turn himself in despite the DCI’s appeal.
Governor Wanga has continued to call for peace as security agencies pursue leads in the case. Her message to residents has been consistent: avoid divisive talk and focus on unity.
Community leaders have also joined Wanga in urging calm. Many have stressed the importance of allowing investigators to complete their work without interference.
As the county prepares for the burial, the weight of grief is heavy. Yet amid the sorrow, Wanga remains hopeful that justice will be served.
“Let’s continue standing together as one people. Let’s reject anyone trying to divide us,” she told mourners.
The investigation into Were's murder continues to dominate headlines across the country. The DCI has assured the public that no stone will be left unturned in the search for truth.
Meanwhile, the community waits for answers, hoping closure will come soon. For now, all eyes remain on the burial set for Friday and the next steps in the investigation.