The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) Chairperson, Roseline Odhiambo Odede, is dead.
Odhiambo passed away on Friday, January 3, 2025, after battling a short illness, according to the commission.
“It is with shock and deep sorrow that I inform you of the demise of Roseline Odhiambo Odede, HSC, Chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights,” the Commission Vice Chairperson Raymond Nyeris stated.
The commission added, “Her untimely death is a big blow to the Commission and the nation at large. As Commission, we had the privilege of serving with Roseline Odede as the chairperson at the helm of the KNCHR’s leadership.”
KNCHR Director Roseline Adede giving a press statement on Tuesday, July 25, 2023.
Photo
KNCHR
Her death has been mourned by various leaders led by President William Ruto who mourned Odhiambo as a champion of human rights.
“She was a formidable human rights champion and a distinguished campaigner for a more equal and fairer society. Our thoughts and love are with the family at this sorrowful moment. Rest In Peace, Roseline,” Ruto commiserated.
On his part, Rarieda Member of Parliament Otiende Omollo, termed Odhiambo as a strong leader with courage who will be greatly missed.
“Quite saddened to learn of the passing-on of KNCHR chair Roselyne Odede. My sister, my constituent, my colleague! You bore this killer disease with courage! Fare thee well, Nyasembo,” he posted on his official X handle.
Homa Bay Town lawmaker Peter Kaluma also expressed grief at the sudden loss, saying, “Oh God, our child! What a loss to the nation!”
Principal Secretary of Interior Raymond Omollo equally mourned Odhiambo saying, “Her unwavering dedication to justice and human rights leaves behind a legacy of profound impact and inspiration. In this moment of grief, we extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and colleagues.”
Nairobi County Woman Representative Esther Passaris also joined in condoling with the family. “We are profoundly saddened by the death of Roseline Odhiambo Odede, Chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights,” she mourned.
Passaris paid tribute to Odhiambo, adding, “Her legacy as a fierce advocate for human rights will continue to inspire future generations. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family as they navigate this immense loss.”
At the same time, former President of the Law Society of Kenya, Nelson Havi, equally mourned Odhiambo, praising her for her great legal mind. “An intelligent, civil, and sober legal mind. May she travel well on the journey that none of us knows about,” he shared.
Odhiambo was a prominent advocate for human rights in Kenya, recognized for her dedication to promoting justice, equality, and dignity for all citizens.
With over 30 years of experience as a litigator in private practice, she specialized in human rights law and provided pro-bono services to marginalized communities
She previously held the position of Vice Chairperson of the Judges Magistrates and Vetting Board. Her work earned her recognition from various organisations, including the East Africa Law Society, which acknowledged her distinguished legal practice and service.
She held a Master of Laws degree from the University of Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, South Africa.
KNCHR chairperson Roseline Odhiambo Odede at past event.
Photo
Roseline Odede