The ODM Party on Thursday, October 30, announced the passing of Mama Rose Kajwang, widow of the late Homa Bay Senator Gerald Otieno Kajwang.
In a statement, ODM expressed its condolences in a statement, highlighting the depth of grief within both the family and the wider political community.
"We mourn the passing of Mama Rose Kajwang’, widow of the late Sen. Gerald Otieno Kajwang’ earlier today after an illness. As 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 statement read.
Rose was briefly thrust into the spotlight in January 2022 when Kajwang's family went to court over how to divide the late lawmaker's estate, amid disagreements on how it should be shared.
The distribution of the former senator's wealth was being delayed by a fierce struggle over control of the estate between his two widows.
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Additionally, a separate court case concerning the valuation of the property further delayed the division.
The late senator's brother, Joseph Okoto Ajwang’, also filed a case claiming a stake in the multi-million estate.
Kajwang's disputed wealth includes houses in Nairobi and Nyanza, shares and savings in SACCOs such as the Bunge Sacco, vehicles and an undisclosed amount of money in bank accounts.
Okoto through lawyer Silas Atonga told the court on Tuesday, January 25, 2022, that a property in Lavington and another piece of land in Migori should be taken out of the late senator's estate.
He argued that though the properties were under Kajwang's name, they were not his.
"Our client had interest on the properties. He believes the two belong to him and so they should not be included. That is the reason we are objecting," said the lawyer.
Justice Lydia Achode also heard that Kajwang’s father, David Ajwang’, who died in February 2021, had opposed the inclusion of a piece of land in Lambwe West as part of Kajwang's estate.
"Being the father, he was not opposed to the valuation, save that he has personal property (in Lambwe) that should not be subjected to valuation," Ajwang's lawyers added.
