Charles Owino is a prominent Kenyan figure known for his long service as the National Police Service (NPS) spokesperson and his recent appointment as the Chairperson of the Kenya Institute of Mass Communication (KIMC). A vocal and charismatic leader, Owino has also dabbled in politics, briefly vying for the Siaya gubernatorial seat in 2022.
Charles Owino’s Age and Early Life
- Born: March 4, 1968 (currently 57 years old as of 2025).
- Tribe: Luo.
- Education: Attended a Kenyan secondary school and later university, though specific institutions remain undisclosed.
Owino’s early life was marked by struggle—he lost his father at age two, leaving his mother to raise eight children alone. At just six, he fished overnight to support his family, highlighting his resilience.
Charles Owino’s Career Highlights
1. Police Service & National Spokesperson Role
- 2013: Served as Officer Commanding Police Division (OCPD) in Njoro, Nakuru.
- 2014: Transferred to Ndhiwa, then Kisumu County security head.
- 2018: Promoted to Director of Communications, NPS, succeeding George Kinoti.
- Known for his eloquent defense of police actions in media interviews.
2. Business Ventures & Controversial Wealth
During a 2015 police vetting, Owino revealed:
- He owned a fish farm expecting to harvest 20,000 tilapia at KSh 250 each (worth ~KSh 5M).
- Claimed Unilever and National Housing Corporation sent him KSh 9M–10M periodically.
- Admitted corruption in the police force but argued low salaries fueled misconduct.
3. Political Ambitions: Siaya Governor Bid
- In 2021, Owino announced plans to retire from police service and run for Siaya governor in 2022.
- Later dropped out, forcing his running mate to find a replacement.
4. Current Role: KIMC Chairperson
- In September 2023, President William Ruto appointed Owino as KIMC Council Chairperson until October 2024.
Charles Owino’s Family & Personal Life
- Marital Status: Widowed—his wife died in a hit-and-run accident, with no justice served.
- Children: Kept private, though he once mentioned losing “the mother of his children”.
Charles Owino’s Net Worth (2025)
- Estimated at KSh 10 million 9.
- Primary sources: Fish farming, rental income, and consultancy 610.
Controversies & Public Perception
- Police Brutality & Protests:
- As NPS spokesperson, Owino defended police actions during protests, including the 2024 anti-Finance Bill demonstrations, where officers were accused of extrajudicial killings.
- Wealth Scrutiny:
- His millions in bank deposits during vetting raised eyebrows, though he attributed them to legitimate businesses.
Conclusion: Legacy and Future Prospects
Charles Owino remains a polarizing yet influential figure—from his police reforms advocacy to his new role at KIMC. Whether he re-enters politics or focuses on institutional leadership, his journey reflects Kenya’s complex interplay of public service, wealth, and accountability.
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