A Tragic Loss and a Journey of Redemption
Former Homa Bay county senator Otieno Kajwang passed away in 2014 after suffering a cardiac arrest, leaving many Kenyans in shock. His wife, Rose Otieno, was confirmed dead on October 30, marking another devastating loss for their family.
The couple’s son, David Brian Ajwang’, shared how his life changed after the death of his father and how his mother played a crucial role in saving him from a downward spiral.
Kajwang died on 19 November 2014 at Mater Hospital following a cardiac arrest. His brother, TJ Kajwang, confirmed the tragic news. The late politician’s wife, Rose Bujehela Otieno, was also confirmed dead on October 30 after a battle with illness. She was a respected lecturer at Kenyatta University and former alumni chairperson before her untimely death.
Rose was known for her inspiring love story with the late Senator Kajwang, which began years ago on a bus ride in Buruburu, Nairobi. During her memorial service, her son, who was accompanied by his beautiful wife, recalled a time when his mother lost trust in him due to his lifestyle.
The Impact of Loss
What happened to Otieno Kajwang’s son? After his father’s death in 2014, Ajwang’ fell into alcoholism. He described himself as a lost man, consumed by self-destructive habits and losing his mother’s trust. “I disappointed my fathers and I let God down,” he said.
However, in 2018, Ajwang’ experienced a spiritual awakening. “God called me, and I made a turnaround. Since then, I have walked the path of sobriety, and it is now clocking seven years. I have been serving in the church in numerous roles, and it has not been easy.”
Ajwang’ also spoke about how his mother’s illness helped him find strength. “It showed me what it truly means to choose light over darkness.” He expressed deep gratitude for his mother, describing her as a strong, educated, and beautiful woman who stood by him even during his darkest moments.
A Heartfelt Memory
Ajwang’ shared a touching memory from his mother’s final days. “Our mother rested in Christ. She was a strong and educated, and beautiful woman. And she knew it. I remember recently, on her sickbed with my father, Hon TJ, he tried to lighten her spirit. And telling her how she was still beautiful and had beautiful skin, despite her sickness. My mother, who was half-conscious at the time, found her strength to remove her oxygen mask and asked, ‘Honourable, do you think that your brother, the great senator Kajwang, was blind?’ We all laughed, and that laughter reminded us of who she was.”
He added that both his parents died in November, and he continued to share how his life transformed after his father’s passing.
Social Media Reactions
The story of Ajwang’ has resonated with many on social media. Here are some of the comments:
- @Kevin Omari Wamari: “This was so powerful, brother.”
- @Lilian: “Glory to God for saving your life for His kingdom.”
- @Ondieki: “It is a blessing to see you serving.”
- @Sharon: “May your mum rest in peace.”
Who Was Kajwang’s Wife?
Rose Bujehela Otieno was more than just a wife; she was a devoted educator and an influential figure in her own right. According to ResearchGate, she had 12 publications and majored in fashion design and the marketing department.
She supported her husband, who was known for his viral ‘bado mapambano’ song and shared public moments with him before his death. Her legacy lives on through her family, her work, and the impact she had on those around her.