The Chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), Roseline Odhiambo Odede, has passed away.
In a statement issued on Saturday, KNCHR Vice Chairperson Raymond Nyeris confirmed that Odede died on Friday, January 3, 2025, after a short illness.
“It is with shock and deep sorrow that KNCHR announces the demise of Roseline Odhiambo Odede, Chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), which occurred yesterday, Friday, January 3, 2025, after a short illness,” Nyeris stated.
He described her passing as a significant loss to both the Commission and the nation. “As a Commission, we had the privilege of serving under Roseline Odede’s visionary leadership. Her untimely death is a big blow to the Commission and the Nation at large,” the statement read.
Nyeris extended the Commission’s heartfelt condolences to Odede’s family, friends, and all who knew her. “May the memories of her exceptional service bring comfort and strength during this difficult time,” he added.
KNCHR has called on the public to join in celebrating the life and legacy of their late Chairperson, whose unwavering commitment to human rights will remain an inspiration to the Commission’s ongoing work.
Odede was an accomplished advocate of the High Court of Kenya, a Certified Mediator, Arbitrator, and Social and Environmental Impact Auditor and Assessor. Her contributions to the human rights sector spanned decades, earning her numerous accolades and recognition.
Before her role at KNCHR, Odede served as the Vice Chairperson of the Judges and Magistrates Vetting Board. She was also a recognized authority in gender, governance, policy, and human rights.
Her academic credentials included a Master of Laws Degree from the University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa. With over 30 years of legal practice, she provided pro bono services in human rights advocacy, a role that earned her the prestigious Head of State Commendation.
The late Chairperson also received special recognition from the East Africa Law Society for her distinguished legal practice and service.
Odede held various leadership roles in prominent professional organizations, including the Commonwealth Lawyers Association, the East Africa Law Society, the Law Society of Kenya, and FIDA Kenya.
Her legacy as a champion for justice, equality, and human rights will continue to inspire those who worked alongside her and the nation she served with dedication.
