Assassination is when a person, usually a public figure, is deliberately killed for political or personal reasons. It’s not just random violence—it’s a planned act to remove someone seen as a threat or obstacle. People often wonder why assassination still happens despite security measures, but history shows it’s a powerful tool used by individuals or groups to change the course of events quickly.
These acts can shake societies or even change governments. When a key leader or influential figure is assassinated, it can cause chaos, confusion, or even trigger wars or revolutions. That’s why understanding assassination helps us grasp how fragile political and social systems can be.
Look back at world history, and you’ll find several assassinations that had huge effects. For example, the killing of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria sparked World War I, because his death set off a chain reaction among countries. More recently, assassinations of political leaders have turned entire nations upside down, revealing how one sudden act can ripple through history.
But it’s not just about politics. Sometimes, assassinations reflect bigger social tensions, rivalries, or struggles for power behind the scenes. These stories are often covered in the news, showing the ongoing risk public figures face.
In the modern world, assassination remains a concern for governments and security experts. Protecting leaders has become a high priority because the consequences extend beyond a single life. When someone powerful is taken out violently, it affects societies, organizations, and even everyday people who depend on stable leadership.
It also raises important questions about justice, security, and ethics. How do we protect innocent lives without causing more conflict? What drives someone to commit such a fatal act? These are tough questions, but talking about them openly helps us understand the world a little better.
Whether it’s past assassinations or news about current threats, learning about this topic keeps us informed about the risks leaders face and the role assassination plays in shaping history and politics.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Kenya is investigating the sale of a pistol allegedly used in the assassination of prominent politician Tom Mboya in 1969. Reports suggest the weapon was recently acquired by a 92-year-old man, prompting the DCI to delve into the claim's authenticity and any possible connections to the historic crime.
Read More