The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party on Thursday night announced with deep sorrow the passing of Mama Rose Kajwang’, widow of the late Senator Gerald Otieno Kajwang’, following an illness.
In a statement released on Thursday night, ODM said the party and its supporters were mourning the loss of a “pillar of strength” within the Kajwang’ family and a “mother figure” to many in Suba North Constituency and beyond.
“We mourn the passing of Mama Rose Kajwang’, widow of the late Sen. Gerald Otieno Kajwang’, earlier today after an illness. As the Orange family, we commiserate with the entire Kajwang’ family and the people of Suba North for the loss. May Rose’s soul rest in peace,” the party stated.
Mama Rose Kajwang’ was the widow of the late Gerald Otieno Kajwang’, a long-serving legislator and former Minister for Immigration, known for his fiery politics and unwavering loyalty to the late ODM leader Raila Amollo Odinga. The late Senator, famous for his “Bado Mapambano” rallying cry, represented Homa Bay County until his death in 2014.
ODM described Mama Rose as a humble, graceful, and unifying matriarch who stood firmly behind her husband’s political journey and continued to hold the Kajwang’ family together through years of public service and national prominence.
Party officials, led by CS Treasury John Mbadi and Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, are expected to visit the family home to convey condolences in person.
Close associates of the family have also paid tribute, describing Mama Rose as a “quiet strength behind a powerful political legacy.” She is remembered for her kindness, her strong faith, and her steady support for community initiatives in Suba North.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in due course.
Mama Rose Kajwang’ is survived by her children and in-laws, including Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang’, Ruaraka MP Tom Kajwang’, and Sam Okello Kajwang’, among others — all of whom have continued their brother’s legacy in public service.
As the ODM fraternity and the nation at large mourn her passing, tributes continue to pour in on social media, reflecting the widespread affection and respect she commanded.
“Mama Rose represented the true spirit of resilience and faith. She held her family together through seasons of triumph and grief. We will miss her dearly,” one ODM official wrote.
Her passing sets a huge void for the Kajwang’ family — one steeped in politics, faith, and service to the people.
May her soul rest in eternal peace.
