President William Ruto has issued a strong warning to those behind the killing of MP Charles Ong’ondo, assuring the nation that justice will be served and no perpetrator will escape the law.

President Ruto condemned the rising wave of violence and lawlessness in parts of the country, saying such acts will not be tolerated under his leadership.

“Lawlessness and violence cannot be part of our culture. We have a country to protect. Stability and peace are major ingredients in development and economic growth,” President Ruto declared. The Head of State promised swift action, warning those behind the killing — and anyone aiding them — that the government would leave no stone unturned in its pursuit of justice.

“We lost our MP Ong’ondo, and I want to assure you that those who were involved will not go scot-free. They will not succeed. We will go after them and their collaborators. They have nowhere to hide,” Ruto stated.

He added that the government was intensifying efforts to combat insecurity, especially in areas plagued by cattle rustling and organized violence.

“The issue of cattle rustling and insecurity — we will go for them. The lives and properties of every citizen will be protected,” the President said.

His sentiment were echoed by Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo who urged leaders in the Nyanza region to steer away from political violence and embrace peace, following the recent killing of Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were in Nairobi.

The killing has heightened political tensions in the region, reigniting concerns about security and the potential for politically-motivated violence.

Speaking on Sunday during an interdenominational church service in Suna West, Migori County, Omollo called on both serving and former leaders to break away from the destructive politics of violence warning that continued unrest only serves to tear communities apart.

“I would want to plead for caution on the part of leaders so that we do not have reckless talks that might jeopardize that because we want everyone involved in criminal activities to be held accountable,” he said.

The PS confirmed that investigations into the MP’s death are ongoing and that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is closing in on the suspects.

The PS also warned against political actors using unemployed youth to cause disruption at public gatherings, stating that the government would not tolerate incitement and politically-instigated chaos.

“We have a chance now; Nyanza must use this season of political stability to benefit from government programs. Peace must be championed by elected leaders,” he added.

His remarks came just hours after a high-profile visit by ODM lawmakers and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga to the home of the late MP Were.

During the visit, tempers flared as leaders demanded answers over the assassination, which has sent shockwaves across the region.