Charles Ong’ondo Were Biography: Age, Death, Education, Career, Wife, Children, Net Worth

Charles Ong’ondo Were was a Kenyan politician and businessman who served as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Kasipul Constituency in Homa Bay County. He was a member of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), led by Raila Odinga. Were was tragically assassinated on April 30, 2025, in Nairobi, in what police have described as a “targeted and premeditated” attack. ​

Before entering politics, Were had a successful career in business. He served as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Victoria Cleaning Services Ltd from 2003 to 2022, Metrookam Properties Ltd between 2006 and 2012, and Benga Group Holding Ltd from 2014 to 2022.

Were’s political journey began in 2017 when he was elected as the MP for Kasipul Constituency on an ODM ticket. He was re-elected in 2022 and served on the Departmental Committee on Blue Economy and Irrigation. During his tenure, he was known for his strong connection to his constituents, attending local events, and championing community development projects such as schools, water initiatives, and church constructions. ​

Early Life and Family

Charles Ong’ondo Were was born in Kasipul Constituency, located in Homa Bay County, Kenya. His family hails from the Luo community, a prominent ethnic group in Kenya, known for their rich cultural heritage and influence in the country’s history. He grew up in a humble environment in Oyugis, a town within Kasipul, where he spent much of his childhood.

He was raised by his parents alongside his siblings, who were also dedicated to academic achievement and community development. Charles’s early life was marked by a strong sense of responsibility toward his family and neighbors.

Education Background

Charles Ong’ondo Were was a diligent student from an early age. He began his primary school education at Kanabok Primary School, where he studied from 1976 to 1982. After completing his primary education, he advanced to Oyugis Secondary School, where he continued his studies until 1986.

His educational journey did not stop at secondary school. In 2012, Charles pursued a certificate in County Governance at Meru University, which marked the beginning of his academic advancement in governance and leadership.

In addition to this, he earned a Diploma in Business Management from Mt. Kenya University between 2013 and 2014. His thirst for knowledge led him to further his education with a Bachelor of Business Management degree, which he obtained between 2015 and 2017. He completed his studies with a Master of Science in Procurement and Supplies from Mt. Kenya University in 2019.

Business Career

Before venturing into politics, Charles Ong’ondo Were had a successful business career that saw him hold key positions in various companies. He was a skilled entrepreneur with a passion for management and leadership. Charles served as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Victoria Cleaning Services Ltd from 2003 to 2022, overseeing its operations and expansion. He also worked as the CEO of Metrookam Properties Ltd between 2006 and 2012 and led Benga Group Holding Ltd from 2014 to 2022.

His extensive experience in business management allowed him to understand the intricacies of leadership, financial management, and community engagement. His businesses not only contributed to the local economy but also provided employment opportunities for many people in his community.

Political Career

Charles Ong’ondo Were’s political career began in 2017 when he was elected as the Member of Parliament for Kasipul Constituency on an ODM ticket. His win marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life, where he transitioned from business to full-time public service. His dedication to improving the lives of his constituents earned him widespread support and recognition in the region.

During his tenure as an MP, Were focused on community development and addressing the needs of his people. He championed various projects aimed at improving education, healthcare, and infrastructure in Kasipul. He was particularly passionate about supporting local schools, drilling water wells, and promoting agricultural initiatives that would help boost the local economy.

In 2022, he was re-elected for a second term in office, a testament to his popularity and the trust his constituents had in him. He served on the Departmental Committee on Blue Economy and Irrigation, where he worked on issues related to water management, fishing, and sustainable agriculture.

Assassination and Death

On April 30, 2025, Charles Ong’ondo Were’s life was tragically cut short when he was assassinated in Nairobi. The incident occurred near the City Mortuary roundabout on Ngong Road at around 7:30 p.m. Were’s vehicle had stopped at a traffic light when a motorcycle approached him. The passenger on the motorcycle disembarked, approached the car, and shot him multiple times through the passenger side window before fleeing the scene.

Charles was rushed to Nairobi Hospital, but he was pronounced dead on arrival. His death was declared a targeted and premeditated assassination by the National Police Service. The attack shocked the nation, and many political leaders expressed their condolences, with some calling for a full investigation into the killing. Were had previously expressed concerns about threats to his life, indicating that he had been aware of potential danger in the months leading up to his assassination.

Personal Life: Family, Wife, and Children

Charles Ong’ondo Were was a family man who valued the importance of his loved ones. He was married and had children, though details about his wife and children remain private. His family was an integral part of his life, and he often expressed the desire to leave a legacy of service to his community and nation. In his private life, Were was known for being a humble and generous individual who prioritized his family’s well-being.

Net Worth and Wealth

As of his untimely death, Charles Ong’ondo Were had accumulated considerable wealth through his successful business ventures and his political career. His business interests in real estate, cleaning services, and property management contributed significantly to his wealth. However, specific figures regarding his net worth are not publicly available. Nonetheless, it is clear that Were’s entrepreneurial endeavors made him a well-established figure in Kenya’s business and political circles.

Conclusion

Charles Ong’ondo Were’s life story is one of dedication, service, and tragedy. From his early years in the rural village of Oyugis to his rise as a successful businessman and respected politician, Were’s journey was defined by his passion for community development and his unwavering commitment to the people of Kasipul. His assassination in 2025 left a void in the political landscape of Kenya, and his contributions to his constituency will be remembered for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Charles Ong’ondo Were?

Charles Ong’ondo Were was a Kenyan politician and businessman who served as the MP for Kasipul Constituency in Homa Bay County. He was tragically assassinated in 2025.

What was Charles Ong’ondo Were’s tribe?

Charles Ong’ondo Were was from the Luo tribe, one of the major ethnic groups in Kenya.

When did Charles Ong’ondo Were die?

Charles Ong’ondo Were was assassinated on April 30, 2025, in Nairobi.

How did Charles Ong’ondo Were die?

He was shot in a targeted assassination near the City Mortuary roundabout in Nairobi.

What was Charles Ong’ondo Were’s educational background?

Charles Ong’ondo Were had a Diploma in Business Management and a Master’s in Procurement and Supplies from Mt. Kenya University.

What was Charles Ong’ondo Were’s profession?

Before entering politics, he was a successful businessman and the CEO of several companies.

Did Charles Ong’ondo Were have children?

Yes, Charles Ong’ondo Were had children, though details about his family are kept private.

Was Charles Ong’ondo Were married?

Yes, he was married, but further details about his wife are not publicly available.