[PHOTOS] Leaders, family attend Odede's burial in Uyoma

Azimio leader Raila Odinga with Kisumu Governor Anyang Nyong'o at the burial ceremony of KNHCR Roseline Odede at Rarieda Constituency in Siaya County on January 18, 2025/ HANDOUT

Azimio leader Raila Odinga and Kisumu Governor Anyang Nyong’o are among the leaders who attended late Kenya National Human Rights Commission (KNHCR) chair Roseline Odede’s burial ceremony.

The service was held in Uyoma, Rarieda Constituency in Siaya County.

Nyong’o eulogised Odede as a distinguished figure in the legal profession, a compassionate leader and a steadfast advocate for human rights.

“Her illustrious career, spanning over three decades, is a powerful testament to her unwavering dedication to justice, equity, and selfless service,” he added.

Odede died on Friday, January 3, 2025.

Commission Vice Chairperson Raymond Nyeris in a statement said she passed away after a short illness.

"It is with shock and deep sorrow that KNCHR informs you all of the demise of Roseline Odhiambo Odede, Chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), that happened Friday, January 3, 2025 after a short illness," the statement said.

"Her untimely death is a big blow to the Commission and the Nation at large. As a Commission, we had the privilege of serving with Roseline Odede as the Chairperson at the helm of the KNCHR’s leadership.”

President William Ruto led leaders in eulogising Odede, saying she 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.

Raila 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.