By Anderson Ojwang
From every part of the country, from different social, economic, political and religious divide they converged in Uyoma, Chianda village and in unison they were in agreement that she was the best of the best.
A patriot, advocate, a mentor, wife, a mother, a teacher, a crusader, a preacher, was how the mourners one after another described the chairperson of Kenya National Himan Rights Commission (KNHRC) Mrs. Roseline Doreen Adhiambo Odede.
Roseline, the daughter in law of freedom fighter and founder of Kenya African Union, the late Fanuel Odede, was given a heroic burial.
Former councilor Omolo Kowii in his opening remarks said “Roseline was the first of the first. Married in the Kodede,a first family in Uyoma, became the first lady in Uyoma and Rarieda to hold the first top public office in Human Rights from the region.
Our queen, if Kenya was just and employment was on merit, she would have been the first woman to hold the post of Independent Election and Boundary Commission (IEBC) chairperson and would have been the best IEBC chair, Kenya never had.
She was denied the opportunity to lead in the position. She was a warrior, went on the battle forefront of the wars, that most men and women fear to do.”
The husband Dr Jorry Odede talked passionately of his love for Adhis and how she made love glow in their marriage and wonderful moments they shared together.
“It really hit me hard when it dawned in me that you were going leave me behind in this world. All along, I had been living in the world of imagination that one day you will be the one who will give me a decent burial.
You helped me give our children the best education both locally and internationally. You mentored them to become responsible and independent girls whom I became very fond of.
I have never known the cost of cloths I wear. The food I eat at home and even payment for DSTV subscription fees. Difficult to believe but that is the truth.
You welcomed many in our homes and now you have left me with countless friends whom I shall strive to serve even though I know it will never be the same,” he said.
Supreme Court Judge Smokin Wanjala, who was her former lecturer at the University of Nairobi, eulogized Roseline as one the bright, dedicated and committed learners he has encountered in his law teaching profession.
“Roseline was in the class of 89, one of the best. Very bright girl. I know her as a champion of human rights and a go getter. She is indefatigable and a fighter. A true warrior and heroine.
At Roseline’s house, you would eat to your fill, food was in abundance and later cap it with treated coffee and tea from Dr Jorry. What a great and pleasant family. We will surely miss the big heart that was Roseline,” he said.
Roseline’s last born daughter Diana described her mother’s colorful life and heart and that she welcomed everyone to their family and treated everyone equally.
“My mother was the best teacher we ever had. She was a source of inspiration and made things to happen for the family, The cog and the engine of the Odede’s family.
My mother was deeply religious and served God with her heart and wealth. She made us to be responsible and honest people. Those are the virtues that mattered most to her and not the titles.
My mother was never judgmental and taught us to never judge anyone but learn and understand their circumstances. What a beautiful mother in heart and in deed. I am proud of you Mama, you brought us well and we thank you,” she said.
Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo said Roseline was her mentor and support system and that she was the reason for her achievements in life.
“I could cook mandazi and then have sessions with Roseline as we shared tea. She taught and mentored me. She challenged me to go for any post that I want in this world and that is how I became the President.
She was there for me, when I lost my father. I have no words but I will carry her teachings and inspiration. She left a legacy in us,” she said.
Her First-born daughter Eng Clara Odede told of how her mother made her to be a charted engineer in United Kingdom and the team leader.
“My mother told me never to fear trying out anything I want. All her work is what you can see today in Engineer Odede.
I inherited that spirit from my mother and even though she is gone, I have the will power to face tomorrow. Her words of wisdom keep ringing in my ears. So, I do not fear tomorrow. I will face it strongly,” she said
KNHRC Vice Chairperson Dr Raymond Nyeris described Roseline as a team player who revolutionized the commission.
“Roseline gave the Commission a face. We became visible both locally and internationally. Roseline has a very huge network and became our center of operation.
As a commission, we have lost a true leader, mentor and a mother to the employees. She never feared to speak the truth and in truth, the commission grew to be bigger and focused,” he said.
Bishop Prof Kodia said the death of Roseline was a big loss to the church which immensely gained from her knowledge and brilliance
“Roseline was a senior member of the Anglican Church. We have lost a leading light. We are happy with the commitment to service to God,” he said.
Samburu Odede described Roseline as the cornerstone of the Odede family and fitted well in her mother’s shoes.
“Roseline treated us her children. She fed us and made life so enjoyable. She was a great person to be next to,” she said.
