The death of Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) marked the end of an era for a distinguished human rights defender and campaigner with an illustrious career.
Roseline had a distinguished career, and was nationally recognised as an expert in gender, governance, policy, and human rights.
An advocate of the High Court of Kenya, Certified Mediator, Arbitrator and Social and Environmental Impact Auditor and Assessor are among the many hats that she wore.
She previously served the nation as the Vice Chairperson of the Judges Magistrates and Vetting Board.
She also held several leadership positions in professional including the Commonwealth Lawyers Association, East Africa Law Society, Law Society of Kenya and FIDA Kenya.
Education, awards and commendations
Ms Odede was a human rights defender with a big heart and offered pro-bono services in the area of Human Rights as a litigator in private practice for over 30 years.
Her exemplary services saw her awarded Head of State Commendation in recognition of her selfless service in the human rights and gender equality with East Africa Law Society also recognising her for distinguished legal practice and service.
She earned a Master of Laws Degree awarded by the University of Witwatersrand Johannesburg, South Africa, in addition to many other academic qualifications in her illustrious career.
The condolence messages that streamed in shortly after KNCHR announced her death on Saturday, January 4 conveyed the deep sense of loss to the commission and the nation at large.
KNCHR mourn the death of its chair
A statement released by KNCHR Vice Chairperson Dr. Raymond Nyeris reflected the profound loss, with the commission describing Ms. Odede’s passing as a significant blow to both the human rights agency and the nation at large.
“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, that happened yesterday, Friday 3rd January, 2025, after a short illness.
“As a Commission, we had the privilege of serving with Roseline Odede as the Chairperson at the helm of the KNCHR’s leadership. Her untimely death is a big blow to the Commission and Nation at large. During this period of mourning, we send our message of condolences and heartfelt sympathies to the family, friends, and all those who knew Roseline. May the memories of her exceptional service bring comfort and strength in this difficult time.
President Ruto & other leaders pay glowing tribute to Roseline
President William Ruto hailed her as a formidable human rights champion and a distinguished campaigner for a more equal and fairer society.
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.
Rarieda Member of Parliament Otiende Amollo mourned her, sharing his grief in a brief condolence message.
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.
The KNCHR has requested the public to join in celebrating the life and legacy of their late Chairperson, whose commitment to human rights will continue to inspire the Commission’s work.