Gunmen Kill Mt Elgon Politician Nathan Wasama Masai

 Mt Elgon politician Nathan Wasama was shot  on Thursday evening outside his house. [Courtesy] 

Mt. Elgon parliamentary aspirant Nathan Wasama Masai was shot and killed on Thursday at his Tukuit home in Cheptais, Bungoma County.

According to Bungoma County Police Commander Anderson Njagi, Masai was killed by unknown assailant(s).

The attackers reportedly raided his home and shot him in the chest before fleeing the scene during the 7:00PM attack.

Njagi said: "I'm headed to the ground, and I will provide details later."

Wasama's killing comes barely two weeks after he publicly announced his intention to contest the Mt Elgon parliamentary seat in the 2027 General Election.

In 2024, Wasama survived another shooting when gunmen attacked him in the Kapcheshari area.

During that incident, several bullets struck the rear of his vehicle, but he escaped uninjured.

The deceased reported the matter to the police, but no action was taken.

His death has sparked shock and grief among residents in the area, with leaders condemning the killing and calling for swift investigations.

Mt. Elgon MP Fred Kapondi condemned Wasama's murder and urged security agencies to act swiftly and ensure the assailants are apprehended.

“I have learned of the shocking death through social media. We have had insecurity issues, and security needs to take action immediately. This is inhumane, and I condemn such violence. Police must ensure the suspects are brought to book, and anyone with information on the assailants must report to the security forces for the family to get justice," said the MP.

Kapondi expressed concern over deteriorating security in the area and urged police to act and restore order.

"Recently, a house was burned at Chebuyuk; officers must move quickly to curb such acts,” Kapondi noted.

Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa described the murder as a senseless act of violence, calling on the government to bring those responsible to justice.

"The tragic death of former Councillor Nathan Wasama is shocking. I condemn this senseless act of violence; no one should lose their life under such tragic circumstances, and those responsible must be identified and held accountable through the due process of the law," said Barasa.

The MP called on the Directorate of Criminal Investigations to investigate the incident and ensure justice is served.

"I call upon the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to conduct a swift, impartial, and thorough investigation to ensure justice is served," he added.

Trans-Nzoia Governor George Natembeya mourned Wasama and described the deceased as committed to championing the interests of the people of Mt Elgon.

Natembeya said the incident evokes memories of the atrocities committed during the Sabaot Land Defence Forces (SLDF) in 2007/2008.

The killing of the aspirant heightened concerns over the safety of political aspirants and public figures in the region as Kenya approaches the 2027 General Election.

Wasama was also renowned beyond politics as a businessman, philanthropist, and active member of the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church.

Tensions are high in the area following the killings, with residents demanding the arrest of those behind the rising insecurity.