Fredrick “Fred” Odhiambo, the Deputy Auditor-General in charge of Financial Audit Services, has passed away at Karen Hospital in Nairobi after what has been described as a short illness. His untimely demise, announced on Thursday, October 2, 2025, has plunged both his family and the entire Office of the Auditor-General into deep mourning. Odhiambo, a seasoned professional who had dedicated decades of service to public finance oversight, was widely respected for his leadership, integrity, and dedication to strengthening accountability systems in Kenya. Although the family has confirmed that he had been ailing briefly before being admitted to hospital, the exact cause of death has not yet been publicly disclosed, as they continue to mourn privately while planning his send-off.
Auditor-General Nancy Gathungu, in a statement, expressed profound sorrow at losing one of her most trusted deputies, describing Odhiambo as “a diligent and visionary leader who carried out his responsibilities with unmatched professionalism.” She added that his absence leaves a significant gap in the institution, particularly at a time when public accountability remains a central concern for the nation. Other senior government officials, professional colleagues, civil society organizations, and ordinary Kenyans have also sent their condolences, remembering him as a man who lived for service, transparency, and justice. Tributes continue to pour in, praising his role in modernizing audit processes and championing reforms that improved oversight of public funds.
Members of his family, while heartbroken, have shared that they are grateful for the outpouring of support from friends, colleagues, and the wider public. They described him as a loving husband, father, and mentor whose values extended far beyond his professional role. His family has also urged Kenyans to remember him not only as a public servant but as a man who valued honesty, fairness, and community service.
At present, reports indicate that his body has been preserved at a Nairobi funeral home as the family finalizes burial arrangements. Details of the funeral program are expected to be communicated in due course, with close family and friends emphasizing that the arrangements will honor both his personal wishes and his lifelong service to the country. The nation continues to stand in solidarity with the Odhiambo family as they prepare for his final journey.
Fred Odhiambo’s passing is not only a personal loss to those who knew him but also a national one, given his immense contributions to safeguarding public resources. His memory will undoubtedly live on in the institutions he strengthened and in the values he instilled in those who worked alongside him. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
