Former Mt Elgon Councillor Nathan Wasama Shot Dead at Home in Bungoma

BUNGOMA, Kenya — Former Chesikaki councillor and Mt Elgon parliamentary aspirant Nathan Wasama Masai was shot dead on Thursday night after armed attackers reportedly stormed his home in Tuikut, Cheptais, Bungoma County.

According to preliminary reports, the assailants opened fire on Wasama several times before fleeing the scene. He sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead after succumbing to his injuries.

By the time of publication, police had not issued an official statement on the incident or confirmed the circumstances surrounding the attack. No arrests had been made, and investigators had yet to disclose a possible motive for the killing.

Wasama had recently declared his intention to contest the Mt Elgon parliamentary seat in the 2027 General Election.

His death comes nearly two years after he survived an earlier assassination attempt. In 2024, unknown gunmen ambushed his vehicle in the Kapcheshari area and fired several shots, with multiple bullets striking the rear of the car. Wasama escaped the attack without injury.

Beyond politics, Wasama was widely known as a businessman, philanthropist and an active member of the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church, where he participated in various community development initiatives.

News of his killing sparked widespread grief and condemnation from political leaders and residents, who called for a swift investigation and the arrest of those responsible.

Kimilili Member of Parliament Didmus Barasa described the shooting as a senseless act of violence and urged security agencies to bring the perpetrators to justice.

"It is with profound sadness that I learned of the tragic death of former Councillor Nathan Wasama, who was reportedly shot at his home in Tuikut, Cheptais, and later succumbed to his injuries," Barasa said in a statement.

"I unequivocally 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."

The legislator extended his condolences to Wasama's family, friends, residents of Mt Elgon and members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, describing the deceased as a respected community leader whose contributions would be remembered.

Barasa also called on the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to conduct a thorough, impartial and expeditious investigation into the killing.

"I call upon the Directorate of Criminal Investigations to carry out a swift, impartial and comprehensive investigation to ensure justice is served," he said.

The fatal shooting has renewed concerns over security in the Mt Elgon region, with local leaders and residents urging authorities to intensify efforts to combat violent crime and ensure those behind the attack are brought to book.

Investigations into the incident are ongoing.