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Charles Ong’ondo Were, MP for Kasipul Constituency, tragically cut short on April 30, 2025, along Ngong Road shortly after leaving Parliament Buildings. His untimely death shocked many, especially those in Homa Bay County, where he was a politician.
Early life and education
Born and raised in Karabok, Homa Bay County, Ong’ondo began his education at Karabok Primary School, sitting his Certificate of Primary Education (CPE) in 1982.
He later joined Oyugis Secondary School, where he obtained his Kenya Certificate of Education (KCE) in 1986.
He earned a Certificate in County Governance from Meru University (2011–2012), followed by a Diploma in Business Management (2013–2014), Bachelor of Business Management (2015–2017), and finally a Master of Science in Procurement & Supplies in 2019—all from Mt. Kenya University.
Professional and political career
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Before joining active politics, Ong’ondo Was a seasoned entrepreneur.
He served as CEO of multiple companies including Victoria Cleaning Services Ltd (2003–2022), Metrookam Properties Ltd (2006–2022), and Benga Group Holding Ltd (2014–2022).
The late MP is also said to have had several business ventures in Meru.
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In 2017, he was elected Member of Parliament for Kasipul Constituency on an ODM ticket, winning a second term in 2022.
In February 2025, he voiced concerns over his safety, stating publicly that his life was in danger and that hired goons were trailing him. This revelation, in hindsight, cast a haunting shadow over the fatal events of April 30.
Family and personal life
The late MP Charles Ong'ondo Were was a polygamous man, survived by three wives—one of whom is deceased—and six children.
He was first married to the late Immaculate Were, a cousin to former Police Spokesperson Charles Owino. Together, they had two children.
His second wife, Margret Were, also bore him two children. Anne Were was his third wife, and they too had two children.
Legacy and achievements
According to those close to him, Ong’ondo's leadership was marked by a strong connection to his constituents.
He was known for attending nearly every funeral, visiting local market centres, engaging boda boda riders, jua kali artisans, and championing community development projects such as schools, water initiatives, and church constructions.
Controversies
Charles Ong'ondo Were was a controversial figure whose political career was marred by several allegations.
He was accused of dealing with his political opponents in Homa Bay with high-handedness, often silencing dissenting voices through intimidation and violence.
One of the most serious accusations against him involved the mysterious disappearance of a woman from Homa Bay during the campaign period.
The woman had reportedly been promised a job in Meru by the MP. However, after travelling there, she never returned home.
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Final moments
On the day of his death, Ong’ondo had been seen in Parliament, appearing distracted—an unusual demeanour noted by colleagues.
“I saw him seated at his usual place,” MP Millie Odhiambo recalled. “He appeared distracted, unlike his usual self.” Moments later, he would be fatally shot—an act that has prompted calls for justice across the political divide.