Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) Chairperson Roseline Odhiambo Odede is dead.
Commission Vice Chairperson Raymond Nyeris confirmed the news stating that Odede died on Friday, January 3 after a short illness.
Her untimely death is a big blow to the Commission and the 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,” KNHCR stated in a statement.
Additionally, the commission noted that it was a privilege to serve alongside her, adding that she was a one-of-a-kind leader.
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Who was KNCHR Chairperson Roseline Odede
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights’ mandate is to protect and promote Human Rights in Kenya by offering advisories to the Government and reporting obligations to several international bodies and organizations.
Roseline Odhiambo Odede was also 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 a nationally recognized expert in gender, governance, policy, and human rights.
Further, she held a Master of Laws Degree awarded by the University of Witwatersrand Johannesburg, South Africa, and had been a litigator in private practice for over 30 years.
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During that time, she offered pro-bono services in the area of Human Rights, a role for which she has been awarded the Head of State Commendation.
Roseline was also specially recognized by the East Africa Law Society, a regional organization, for distinguished legal practice and service.
At the same time, has held several leadership positions in several professional societies, including the Commonwealth Lawyers Association, East Africa Law Society, Law Society of Kenya and FIDA Kenya.
in July 2021, Odede participated in an interview following her application for one of the four commissioner positions advertised at the IEBC.
She was the last candidate interviewed out of 36 applicants, vying to replace former Commissioners Roselyn Akombe, Paul Kurgat, Margaret Mwachanya, and Connie Maina, who exited the Commission after the 2017 elections.
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