Wamuzi News Ke
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) Chairperson, Roseline Odhiambo Odede, has passed away.
In a statement released on Saturday, KNCHR Vice Chairperson Raymond Nyeris confirmed Odede’s death, which occurred on Friday, January 3, 2025, following a brief illness.
“We are deeply shocked and saddened to announce the untimely passing of Roseline Odhiambo Odede, Chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights. Her death is a tremendous loss to the Commission and the nation at large,” Nyeris stated.
He added, “We extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, and all who were touched by her incredible dedication to human rights. May her memory serve as a source of comfort and inspiration during this time of grief.”
KNCHR has invited the public to honor Odede’s legacy, highlighting her unwavering commitment to human rights advocacy.
As a state agency, KNCHR advises the government and reports on international human rights obligations. Under Odede’s leadership, the Commission advanced these mandates significantly.
Odede was a distinguished High Court advocate in Kenya, a Certified Mediator, Arbitrator, and a Social and Environmental Impact Assessor. She previously served as Vice Chairperson of the Judges and Magistrates Vetting Board and was widely recognized as an expert in gender, governance, and human rights.
Her academic credentials include a Master of Laws Degree from the University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. With over three decades of legal practice, Odede dedicated much of her career to pro-bono human rights work, earning her the Head of State Commendation and recognition from the East Africa Law Society.
Odede also held leadership roles in various professional organizations, including the Commonwealth Lawyers Association, East Africa Law Society, Law Society of Kenya, and FIDA Kenya.
Her profound contributions to law and human rights have left an indelible mark, ensuring her legacy will inspire generations to come.
Stephen Musungu
