NAIROBI, Kenya – The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has joined political leaders and Kenyans in mourning the death of youth activist and former student leader Elvis Otieno, popularly known as “The Beast.”
The party described Otieno as a committed youth leader who used his platform in the ODM Youth League’s Comrades Chapter to advocate for the rights and interests of young people.
ODM said Otieno was known for his cheerful personality, outgoing nature and strong grassroots mobilisation skills, noting that he dedicated his life to championing youth causes.
“We are saddened by the news of the passing of Mr Elvis Otieno aka ‘’The Beast’’, a member of the ODM Youth League’s Comrades Chapter and a former student leader at the Technical University of Mombasa,” the party said.
“The Beast, as he was popularly known, was outgoing, cheerful and a good mobiliser who dedicated his life to championing the rights of the youth.”
The party sent condolences to Otieno’s family, friends and relatives, offering prayers for strength and comfort during the mourning period.
Tributes also poured in from leaders across the political divide, with many highlighting his role in youth empowerment, grassroots mobilisation and community leadership.
Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalang’o, said Otieno’s death was a major loss to Mombasa’s political and community landscape.
“A good man has rested. Go well, my brother. Mombasa politics, grassroots mobilisation, and community leadership will never be the same without you. Rest in peace, Otieno—’ The Beast.’ Gone too soon, and deeply missed,” he said.
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino described Otieno as a close friend whose passing had left him devastated.
“You were more than a friend; you were a blessing, a source of joy, and a light in the lives of everyone who knew you. Though you have left this earth, the memories we shared, the kindness you showed, and the love you gave will remain with us forever,” Babu said.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo said he was deeply saddened by Otieno’s sudden death, describing him as a passionate youth leader, dedicated community mobiliser and close friend.
Omollo said Otieno played a key role in creating spaces for young people to connect through dialogue, mentorship and positive engagement, including initiatives such as the Kenya Youth Transition Initiative.
“Through the many youth forums and meetings, he organised, such as the Kenya Youth Transition Initiative, he became a respected voice and a source of hope for countless young people,” Omollo said.
He recalled spending time with Otieno a day before his death while watching the FIFA Club World Cup final in Nyali.
“None of us could have imagined that those moments would become our final memories with him. That reality makes his sudden departure even more painful,” he said.
Other Kenyans, including Agnes Kagure, also paid tribute to Otieno, describing him as an inspiring youth leader whose rise from Huruma to national student leadership encouraged many young people.
“His journey inspired many young people to believe that their backgrounds should never define their future. His sudden passing is a profound loss to the youth movement and to all who believed in, and worked with him,” she said.
Joshua Okayo remembered Otieno’s tenure as president of the Technical University of Mombasa Students Association (TUMSA), saying he had hosted him during a coastal university tour aimed at mobilising students against the higher education funding model.
Okayo added that Otieno had recently contacted him to ask whether he had applied for Judiciary positions so he could support his application.
“I have lost a comrade. I have lost a brother. Rest in power, my comrade,” he said.
Otieno’s death has triggered widespread mourning, with many remembering him for his dedication to youth advocacy, grassroots mobilisation and community leadership.