Nairobi, Kenya – January 4, 2025
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) is mourning the loss of its Chairperson, Roseline Odhiambo Odede, who passed away on Friday, January 3, 2025, after a brief illness.
It is with shock and deep sorrow that @HakiKNCHR informs you all 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.
— KNCHR (@HakiKNCHR) January 4, 2025
During this period of mourning,… pic.twitter.com/iBWRCNytT5
In a statement released Saturday, KNCHR Vice Chairperson Raymond Nyeris described the news as a profound loss to the Commission and the nation.
“It is with immense shock and deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Roseline Odhiambo Odede, our Chairperson and a visionary leader in human rights advocacy. Her untimely death is a devastating blow to KNCHR and Kenya as a whole,” the statement read.
A Life Dedicated to Justice and Equality
Roseline Odede was a respected legal luminary whose career spanned over three decades. A passionate advocate for gender equality, governance, and human rights, Odede was celebrated for her groundbreaking contributions to legal and social justice.
Her distinguished career included serving as Vice Chairperson of the Judges and Magistrates Vetting Board and holding leadership roles in prominent legal organizations such as the Commonwealth Lawyers Association, East Africa Law Society, and FIDA Kenya. She was also a Certified Mediator, Arbitrator, and Social and Environmental Impact Auditor and Assessor.
Odede’s dedication to pro-bono legal work in human rights earned her the prestigious Head of State Commendation, further cementing her legacy as a champion for justice.
A Trailblazer in Human Rights Advocacy
With a Master of Laws degree from the University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa, Odede was a trailblazer in her field. Her contributions extended beyond Kenya, influencing regional and international legal practices and policies.
In recognition of her distinguished legal practice, Odede was honored by the East Africa Law Society and other esteemed bodies.
Remembering a Visionary Leader
KNCHR emphasized Odede’s transformative leadership, which guided the Commission’s critical role in advancing justice and meeting Kenya’s international human rights obligations.
“Roseline Odede’s legacy will inspire us to continue the fight for justice and equality. Her impact on human rights and governance will remain a beacon for the nation,” the KNCHR statement noted.
The Commission extended heartfelt condolences to Odede’s family, friends, and colleagues, urging Kenyans to reflect on her extraordinary life of service.
Funeral Arrangements Pending
Details of funeral arrangements will be shared in due course as the nation joins KNCHR in honoring the life and contributions of one of its foremost human rights champions.
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