Ruto & Other Leaders Mourn Death Of KNCHR Chairperson Roseline Odede
Leaders immediately reacted to news of her demise on Saturday, January 4
Viral Tea Ke Writer 
Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) Chairperson, Roseline Odhiambo Odede is dead. The commission announced in a statement that Odede passed away on Friday, January 3, 2025, after battling a short illness.
“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.
“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.”
Leaders immediately reacted to news of her demise on Saturday, January 4. President William Ruto stated that he was "Deeply saddened by the death of the Chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights Roseline Odhiambo Odede."
The late Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) Chairperson, Roseline Odhiambo Odede. /FILE
"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," he wrote on his social media handles.
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."
On his part, Rarieda Member of Parliament Otiende Omollo, termed Odhiambo as a courageous leader 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!"
Odede held a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) from the University of Nairobi and a Master of Laws (LL.M) from the University of the Witwatersrand.
In her professional career, she served as the Senior Managing Partner at Roseline Odede & Company Advocates, leading numerous cases, particularly focusing on issues related to gender rights and human rights.
Odede then served as the Chairperson of KNCHR, where she played a crucial role in promoting and protecting human rights in the country. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta nominated her in June 2022 and officially joined the commission in this capacity months later.
As Chairperson, Odede led the Commission in its mandate to promote and protect human rights in Kenya, being involved in various initiatives, including advocating for the realization of economic, social, and cultural rights, and addressing issues related to demonstrations and public protests.
Odede has also contributed to the Judiciary through her role on the Judges and Magistrates Vetting Board, where she participated in the vetting process of judges and magistrates.
