The late Raila Odinga’s long-serving personal bodyguard Maurice Ogeta has finally paid an emotional tribute to the man he protected for years, describing their bond as one that transcended duty, a connection he likened to that of a father and son.
In a heartfelt message, Ogeta reflected on his time by Raila’s side, recalling years marked by trust, loyalty, and shared sacrifice. He said the role was far more than a job; it was a journey of personal growth shaped by the mentorship of a leader he deeply admired.
His tribute adds a deeply personal layer to the outpouring of grief and remembrance that has followed the passing of one of Kenya’s most iconic political figures.
He credited Raila— affectionately known as “Jakom” — with shaping his life and career, saying the role was not just a job but a journey of personal growth under the mentorship of a man he deeply respected.
“Jakom, the commitment in the years-old service to and under you, and the undeniably very close nexus blossomed to both comradeship of trust and a near father-son relationship,” Ogeta wrote in his tribute.
Ogeta, who had been at Raila’s side through countless political rallies, campaigns, and even moments of personal danger, said their relationship grew stronger over time as mutual trust was built.
Earlier, an emotional scene unfolded at Parliament as Ogeta broke down during the viewing of the former Prime Minister’s body.
Ogeta appeared visibly shaken as he entered the hall.
Supported by Narok Senator Ledama Olekina, he embraced President William Ruto in a moment that transcended political lines.
His lips were trembling and his steps unsteady as he made his way to his seat.
Once seated, Ogeta could be seen crying, wiping his tears, his grief echoing the sorrow felt across the nation.
Olekina remained by his side, offering comfort as mourners looked on in silence.
Ogeta’s breakdown was a poignant reminder of the personal bonds behind public service.
Having stood by Raila through years of political struggle and personal triumphs, his reaction captured the depth of loss felt by those closest to the ODM leader.
Behind the dark glasses and serious expressions, Ogeta has carried a heavy emotional weight.
In Raila’s final days in India, Ogeta was among the few who remained close, a silent witness to the last chapter of a storied life.
Ogeta has served Raila for years, with his devotion having been tested in 2023 during a politically charged period when he was abducted by unknown men believed to be police officers.
For days, he vanished. When finally released, he was found blindfolded and visibly shaken, a stark reminder of the risks that come with guarding a figure as prominent and polarising as Raila.
Despite the trauma, Ogeta never wavered. He returned to his post, standing beside Raila through rallies, negotiations and moments of national tension.
Ogeta’s career spans over two decades of elite military and security training across the globe.
Reports indicate he underwent professional instruction in Afghanistan and France, each for two years, focusing on advanced protection, intelligence gathering and tactical response.
His most extensive training came from Israel’s Special Forces, where he spent 15 years honing skills in counter-surveillance and rapid combat reaction.
He also trained with Russian forces for 10 years, gaining expertise in high-level personal protection.
