President William Ruto has led other leaders in mourning the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights chairperson Roseline Odede who died on Friday.
Odede died after a short illness, according to KNCHR.
In his statement of condolence, President Ruto said he was deeply saddened by Odede's death.
Ruto said Odede was 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,'' Ruto said on his official X account.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki described Odede as a profond and dedicated legal professional and an unapologetic advocate for the rights and freedoms of all people.
"She believed in the transformative power of liberty and worked hard throughout her career for the improvement of democracy, the rule of law and human rights," Kindiki said.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga also mourned Odede as an accomplished lawyer, a trailblazer in the protection of human rights, and a distinguished public servant.
"As Chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, Roseline has lifted the Commission back to respectability as a champion of the defense of fundamental civil liberties and the rights of the most vulnerable in our society,"Raila said in a post on Facebook.
"Under her tenure, the Commission has earned a reputation for faithfulness to its mandate while maintaining impartiality in its conduct. She has tirelessly worked to enhance the independence and integrity of the commission and restored public faith in the institution."
Raila said Roseline Odede will be remembered for her tenure as magistrate and particularly as Vice Chair of the Judges and Magistrates Vetting Commission.
"She demonstrated her unwavering commitment to integrity and accountability in the judiciary, earning her respect both within and beyond the legal fraternity. Over the years, Roseline has stood out as a steadfast advocate for gender equality and the promotion of human rights," he said.
"Her work inspired countless individuals and brought hope to those who yearned for a more just and equitable society. As we mourn this immense loss, we celebrate a life dedicated to service and justice. My thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. May they find strength and solace in the indelible legacy she leaves behind. Rest in peace Nyar Asembo!"
Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo said Odede was a level-headed, accommodating, and collaborative partner who always prioritised service to the people and the greater good.
"Roseline's tenure in charge of the KNCHR was characterised by exemplary fortitude and commitment to the rule of law and human rights,'' Odhiambo said in a statement.
Odhiambo said that Odede steered the Commission through a difficult human rights context in Kenya but maintained unfettered dedication to standing up firmly against impunity, government excesses, and poor governance.
"Her death is a big loss for the country and the community of human rights defenders. We convey our heartfelt condolences to her family and friends. May her soul rest in eternal peace,'' the LSK boss said.
Interior and National Administration Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo said he was deeply saddened by the untimely passing of Odede.
"Her unwavering dedication to justice and human rights leaves behind a legacy of profound impact and inspiration.
In this moment of grief, we extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and colleagues.
May God grant you strength and peace during this difficult time,'' Omollo said on his X account.
Odede was an advocate of the High Court of Kenya, Certified Mediator, Arbitrator and Social and Environmental Impact Auditor and Assessor.
She previously served as the Vice Chairperson of the Judges Magistrates and Vetting Board and is a nationally recognised expert in gender, governance, policy, and human rights.
She holds a Master of Laws Degree awarded by the University of Witwatersrand Johannesburg, South Africa; and has been a litigator in private practice for over 30 years, during which period she offered pro-bono services in the area of Human Rights, a role for which she has been awarded the Head of State Commendation.
Odede was also specially recognized by the East Africa Law Society, a regional organization, for distinguished legal practice and service.
She 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.
Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga said he was deeply saddened and shocked by the untimely passing of Odede.
"Ancillary to her vast areas of expertise, Ms Roseline also served as a member of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions Advisory Board,'' Ingonga said.
"A distinguished lawyer, Ms Roseline Odede’s career spanned over three decades where she served in various leadership positions with impartiality, integrity and diligence, among many other qualities that were both unequivocally exceptional and undeniably admirable.''
Ingonga said Odede was respectful yet firm and fierce in discharging her duties in the human rights sector.
"On behalf of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and on my own behalf, I wish to convey our deepest condolences to the family, friends and entire legal fraternity following the loss of Roseline Odede,'' he said.
