Widow of late Senator Gerald Otieno Kajwang, Mama Rose Kajwang [ODM/X]The ODM Party on Thursday announced the passing of Mama Rose Kajwang, widow of the late Homa Bay Senator Gerald Otieno Kajwang.
ODM expressed deep sorrow following the death of Mama Rose Kajwang.
In a statement posted on its official X page on Thursday night, the party confirmed that Mama Rose passed away earlier in the day after an illness.
“We mourn the passing of Mama Rose Kajwang’, widow of the late Senator Gerald Otieno Kajwang’, earlier today [Thursday] after an illness. As the Orange family, we commiserate with the entire Kajwang’ family and the people of Suba North for the loss,” ODM said.
“May Rose’s soul rest in Peace.”
Mama Rose was a respected academic and lecturer at Kenyatta University, where she also served as the head of the institution’s alumni body.
Her career in academia earned her recognition as a mentor and education advocate, particularly among women in leadership and public service.
Her passing marks another sad moment for one of the most politically influential families in Nyanza and within the ODM fraternity.
Her late husband, Gerald Otieno Kajwang’, was among the outspoken members of the Orange Democratic Movement and a close ally of party leader Raila Odinga.
Kajwang’ first rose to prominence in national politics in the 1990s and later cemented his position as one of ODM’s key figures in the Nyanza region.
He served as the Member of Parliament for Mbita Constituency, elected in the December 2007 parliamentary election under the ODM ticket.
Known for his charisma and fiery oratory, Kajwang became a familiar face at political rallies, often remembered for his signature slogan “Bado Mapambano,” which became a rallying cry for ODM supporters.
In the 2013 general election, he successfully contested the newly created Homa Bay County senatorial seat, representing the county in the Senate from March 2013 until his untimely death in November 2014.
Kajwang’ died on November 19, 2014, at the age of 58.
His death sent shockwaves through the political landscape, with leaders from across the political divide paying tribute to his loyalty, humour, and dedication to public service.
Following his death, his younger brother, Moses Otieno Kajwang’, was elected in a by-election held on February 12, 2015, to succeed him as the Senator for Homa Bay County.
Moses, also a member of ODM, has since been re-elected twice — in 2017 and 2022 — continuing the family’s strong political legacy.
Mama Rose remained a steady pillar of the family through these years, supporting her husband’s political journey and nurturing a legacy of leadership and education.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in due course.
