Coast

Coast ODM fraternity mourns demise of two Women's League members

The late Mama Zahara Shee during a past ODM event in Lamu County. (Photo: ODM)

By Farhiya Hussein | Sunday, May 19, 2024

Mama Zahara Shee, a prominent figure known for her dedicated service to the people of Lamu died on Friday while Fatuma Juma (Mwatsau), who served as the chairperson of the women's movement in Msambweni constituency in Kwale County died Sunday.

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) fraternity in the Coast region is in mourning following the demise of two of their members of the Women's League.

Mama Zahara Shee, a prominent figure known for her dedicated service to the people of Lamu died on Friday while Fatuma Juma (Mwatsau), who served as the chairperson of the women's movement in Msambweni constituency in Kwale County died Sunday.

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Mama Zahara served as a Member of the Lamu County Assembly and held the esteemed position of Chairperson of the Coast Region ODM Women's League.

Led by the Deputy ODM Chairperson and Former Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho, the ODM community expressed their pain at the loss.

"I join the people of Lamu in mourning the passing of one of the most iconic female leaders in the coastal region, Mama Zahara Shee," Joho said.

He praised her diligence and described her as a pillar of hope and an inspiration to many across the coastal region.

The late Mama Zahara Shee (right) hands over a portrait to ODM leader Raila Odinga during a past ODM event in Lamu County. (Photo: ODM)

“She will be greatly remembered for courage, wisdom and fortitude in serving the people of Lamu and the nation at large. She was indeed a pillar of hope and an inspiration to many across the coastal region,” said Joho.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir also offered his sympathies, stating, "We pray to God to give her soul respite, grant her relief from the punishment of the grave and mercifully allow her entry into heaven."

President of the ODM Women's League, Senator Beth Syengo on the loss of Mama Zahara, highlighted her role as a "great leader, a dedicated sister, and a comrade in the liberation struggle."

She extended her condolences to the family and friends of Mama Zahara, praying for peace and courage during this challenging time.

“The ODM Women League has lost a great leader, a dedicated sister and a comrade in the liberation struggle. On behalf of the ODM Women's League, I wish to extend my sincere condolences to the family and friends of our departed comrade. May our good Lord grant the family, friends and the larger ODM Lamu fraternity peace and courage during these trying moments,” she said.

Nominated Senator Shakilla Abdalla echoed the sentiments, emphasising Mama Zahara's legacy of courage, wisdom, and service to the community.

"She was indeed a pillar of hope and an inspiration to many across the coastal region," she remarked, offering prayers for her eternal peace.

Civil Society Organizations, including the Muslim for Human Rights (MUHURI), also paid tribute to Mama Zahara.

In a statement, they hailed her as a "remarkable woman" who dedicated her life to serving the Lamu community and championing human rights.

They noted Mama Zahara Shee's legacy as a devoted leader and advocate for her community will continue to inspire generations to come.

In Kwale, ODM leaders on Sunday woke up to the sad demise of ODM Women's League member Fatuma Juma, also known as "Fatuma Boga," who will be buried at her home in Mariakani Mkilo Sunday in accordance with Islamic tradition.

The party eulogised Fatuma praising her for her dedication and loyalty to ODM's ideology.

"We shall miss her. We pray for the family of the late Mama Fatuma, friends and the Kwale County ODM fraternity for this loss. RIP Mama Fatuma Juma Meri," the party said.