KNCHR chairperson Roseline Odede is dead
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) chairperson Dr. Roseline Odede is dead.
In a statement released by the commission vice chairperson Dr. Raymond Nyeris, Odede reportedly passed on today morning after a short illness.
Nyeris describing her death as a significant loss to the commission and the nation.
“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.” Nyeris said.
The statement also extended condolences to Odede’s family, friends, and all those who knew her.
“May the memories of her exceptional service bring comfort and strength in this difficult time.” The statement read in part.
Odedes death sparked panic with Kenyans and human rights lobby groups mourning her as ardent defender of human rights.
President William Ruto led the country in mourning the deceased and described her as 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.” President Ruto said in his condolences to Odede’s family.
On her part, the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) president Faith Odhiambo described Odede as a level-headed, collaborative partner, recalling their time together at FIDA Kenya and the Law Society of Kenya Council.
“Roseline’s tenure as chair of the KNCHR was marked by her exemplary fortitude and commitment to the rule of law and human rights.” Odhiambo said.
She said Odede’s leadership in defending human rights, despite the country’s challenging context, was inspiring.
“Her death is a big loss for the country and the community of human rights defenders. May her soul rest in eternal peace.” Odhiambo added.
The Social Justice Centre Working Group also expressed their sorrow, terming Odede a “trailblazer in human rights advocacy” whose dedication to justice
Similarly, former LSK president and Senior Counsel Nelson Havi also paid tribute to Odede, describing her as an intelligent and sober legal mind.
“An intelligent, civil, and sober legal mind. May she travel well on the journey that none of us knows about.” Havi said.
Odede was an advocate of the High Court of Kenya, a certified mediator, an arbitrator, and a social and environmental impact auditor and assessor.
She previously served as the vice chairperson of the Judges, Magistrates, and Vetting Board and was widely recognised as an expert in gender, governance, policy, and human rights.
She earned a master of laws degree from the University of Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, South Africa.
With over 30 years of experience as a litigator in private practice, Odede also provided pro-bono legal services in human rights, a commitment that earned her the Head of State Commendation.
Her distinguished legal career was also acknowledged by the East Africa Law Society, a regional organisation, for her exceptional service and practice.
Odede held various leadership roles in several professional associations, including the Commonwealth Lawyers Association, East Africa Law Society, Law Society of Kenya, and FIDA Kenya.
Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.
