Suspects in MP Charles Ong’ondo Were Murder Case to Undergo Mental Health Assessments Before Plea

NAIROBI, Kenya – June 4, 2025
Five individuals accused in the shocking murder of Kasipul Member of Parliament Charles Ong’ondo Were will undergo mandatory mental health evaluations before formally entering pleas, following a directive issued by Nairobi courts on Tuesday. The suspects will remain in police custody during the evaluation period.

Legal Proceedings Split Across Two Courts

At the Milimani Law Courts, two of the suspects—Isaac Kuria and the late MP’s bodyguard, Allan Omondi Ogolla—appeared virtually before Justice Margaret Muigai. The judge ordered mental assessments for both and instructed that legal counsel be appointed to represent them in line with their constitutional rights. Their case is scheduled for mention on June 18, by which time results of the assessments are expected to guide the next legal steps.

In a separate session at the Kibera Law Courts, three other suspects—William Imoli Shigali (alias Imo), Edwin Oduor Odhiambo (alias Muchuani), and Ebel Ochieng (alias Dave Colo)—were arraigned but did not enter pleas. Justice Diana Kavedza directed that the trio be detained at Nairobi Remand Prison for 14 days to allow for comprehensive psychiatric evaluations. Their next court appearance is slated for June 17.

Grim Case Shocks Nation

The late MP Charles Ong’ondo Were's murder has gripped the nation, prompting widespread calls for swift justice. The involvement of his personal bodyguard among the suspects has intensified public scrutiny of the investigation and raised fresh concerns about internal political security.

The mandatory mental evaluations are part of a standard legal process to determine the suspects' fitness to stand trial. Should they be deemed mentally competent, the court will proceed with formal charges, potentially including murder and conspiracy.

The Judiciary has reiterated its commitment to ensuring a fair trial, while families, constituents, and the public await answers in the tragic killing of the popular legislator.