Former Chesikaki Councillor and Mt Elgon parliamentary hopeful Nathan Wasama Masai has reportedly been shot dead by unknown assailants in a shocking incident that has sent waves of grief and fear across Bungoma County.
Wasama is said to have been attacked at his home in Tuikut, Cheptais, within Mt Elgon Constituency, on Thursday night, August 7, 2026.
According to preliminary reports, armed attackers allegedly stormed his residence before shooting him several times. The assailants reportedly fled immediately after the attack, leaving Wasama with multiple gunshot wounds.
Images circulating on social media following the incident appeared to show what looked like bullet wounds on his chest. However, police had not officially confirmed the circumstances of the shooting or the authenticity of the images at the time of publication.
The reported killing is particularly disturbing because it comes only weeks after Wasama publicly declared his intention to contest the Mt Elgon parliamentary seat in the 2027 General Election.
Even more chilling is the fact that the latest incident reportedly marks the second time in two years that the politician and businessman has faced a potentially fatal attack.
In 2024, Wasama survived a shooting incident in the Kapcheshari area. Gunmen reportedly opened fire on his vehicle at around 7pm, with several bullets striking the back of the car. Despite the terrifying attack, he managed to escape without sustaining injuries.
His reported death has therefore raised fresh questions about the security threats he may have faced, particularly following his renewed political ambitions.
Beyond politics, Wasama was known in the Mt Elgon region as a businessman and philanthropist who was involved in various community initiatives. He was also an active member of the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church and was remembered for his participation in activities aimed at supporting members of the community.
News of the reported shooting has triggered shock, anger and sorrow among residents and leaders in the region. Several leaders have condemned the incident and called on security agencies to move swiftly to establish exactly what happened and identify those behind the attack.
Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa was among the first leaders to react to the reported killing. He described the incident as a senseless act of violence and urged authorities to ensure that those responsible are arrested and face justice.
As the community mourns, attention now turns to the security agencies to provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding the incident. Questions are also likely to arise over whether the attack was connected to Wasama’s political ambitions or stemmed from other motives.
For residents of Mt Elgon, the reported death has reopened painful memories of violence in the region while raising renewed concerns over the safety of political leaders and community figures.
The full circumstances surrounding the shooting remain subject to official investigations.
