Philip Aroko: Family Holds Prayers after Court Clears Politician in Ong'ondo Were Murder Case
- Philip Aroko was cleared by the court in the murder case of former MP Charles Ong’ondo Were, citing a lack of sufficient evidence
- His family held a thanksgiving prayer ceremony, thanking God for the ruling and seeking protection as Aroko plans to run for the Kasipul parliamentary seat
- Aroko promised inclusive leadership and expressed gratitude to supporters who prayed for him throughout the legal ordeal
Nancy Odindo, a TUKO.co.ke journalist, has over four years of experience covering Kenyan politics, news, and features for digital and print media.
Nairobi: The family of Kasipul politician Philip Aroko held special prayers to thank God after the court cleared him of involvement in the murder of a former Member of Parliament, Charles Ong’ondo Were.
Source: Facebook
Ong’ondo was gunned down on April 30 while on his way from parliament.
The shocking assassination sparked outrage and a high-profile investigation, during which Aroko was named as a suspect and subsequently barred from going to Homa Bay county.
Despite his claim of innocence, the prosecution told the court that Aroko had emerged as a key suspect, claiming he had issued threats to the slain MP and even allegedly financed the assassination.
How did Philip Aroko's family react to his vindication?
However, in a ruling delivered on Thursday, June 26, the court vindicated Aroko, citing a lack of sufficient evidence linking him to the murder. The decision was met with relief and celebration by his family, friends, and supporters.
During a prayer gathering at his family home, relatives and clergy offered thanksgiving to God for what they termed as 'justice served.'
The family also prayed for Aroko’s protection as he prepares to vie for the Kasipul parliamentary seat in the upcoming by-election and the 2027 General Election.
Speaking after the ruling, Aroko expressed gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose.
“There will now be a more civilised kind of politics. I will be there for everyone and represent all equally as we focus on building our country,” he said.
He also thanked those who had stood by him during the difficult period.
“I thank God for those who have been praying for me. I know some people have been going to my rural home just to pray. May God bless you. Good life is always good life,” Aroko added with a smile.
However, he has since become a state witness.
The prayers marked a symbolic moment of closure for the family and a fresh start for Aroko, who is now positioning himself as a unifying candidate for Kasipul.
What else do you need to know about Ong'ondo Were's murder?
- Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen explained how the slain MP could have avoided death
- Kibera Law Courts judge Diana Kavedza hinted at concluding Were's murder case within four months
- Three suspects in Were's murder case were denied bail after pleading not guilty
Will Aroko pray at ex-MP Were's grave?
Earlier, through his lawyer, Danstan Omari, Aroko expressed his wish to return to Kasipul to pray for the late MP Were and engage with the community.
Source: Facebook
Omari argued that under African traditions, funerals extend beyond the burial day.
He added that Aroko, a public figure, intended to connect with constituents as he eyes the Kasipul parliamentary seat.
Proofreading by Jackson Otukho, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
