Businessman and political figure Philip Nahashon Aroko has been released from custody and will now serve as a state witness in the ongoing investigation into the murder of Kasipul Member of Parliament Charles Ong’ondo Were.
Aroko, who was previously arrested and treated as a suspect in the high-profile case, was freed after the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) reviewed the evidence and opted to enlist him as a key witness.
His release marks a significant turning point in a case that has already seen three individuals formally charged with the legislator’s killing.
Until recently, Aroko faced intense scrutiny from law enforcement.
In late May, the High Court overturned a decision by the Chief Magistrate’s Court at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), which had granted him bail. Justice Kavenza ruled in favor of the prosecution’s request for extended detention, citing the complex and sensitive nature of the ongoing investigation.
“The application is found to be merited,” the judge stated, emphasizing that the temporary detention was necessary to allow investigators to pursue critical leads without infringing on Aroko’s constitutional rights.
He was subsequently held at Kileleshwa Police Station until May 26, 2025, as investigations continued.
The prosecution had argued that releasing Aroko at the time could jeopardize the case, citing concerns that he might interfere with witnesses or co-accused persons. The High Court’s decision to revoke his earlier bail order underscored the state’s heightened caution in preserving the integrity of the probe.
Aroko has consistently denied any involvement in the MP’s murder.
