Maurice Ogeta: Raila’s Long-Serving Bodyguard’s Moving Tribute amid Tears

The death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on October 15, 2025, sent a shockwave across Kenya. Few mourners demonstrated the depth of personal loss as profoundly as his long-serving personal bodyguard, Maurice Ogeta.

Ogeta, a constant fixture beside the prominent political figure for years, penned a moving tribute and was visibly overcome by grief upon the return of Raila’s body to Kenya.

A Bond Like Father and Son

Ogeta described his decades-long professional commitment to Odinga as much more than a job. He referred to the relationship as one of comradeship and trust, akin to a near-son relationship.

Ogeta’s service lasted for close to 18 years. He credited the former Prime Minister, affectionately known as "Jakom," with shaping his life and career.

“JAKOM, That the commitment in the years-old service to and under you, and the undeniably very close nexus that blossomed to both comradeship of trust and a near-son relationship, have seen me grow into what I am today in the Leadership space, can neither be gainsaid nor overstressed.”

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Ogeta’s written tribute was a poignant reflection on their journey. He thanked Raila for being a dependable Father and Mentor. He acknowledged Raila’s legacy in the quest for a “freer and more equal continent,” placing him in a league with Nelson Mandela.

The Face of Grief at Parliament

The full weight of the loss became public during the official viewing of the body at Parliament Buildings.

Ogeta, a man trained for composure and protection, could not hold back his emotions. A widely circulated photograph captured the moment of his overwhelming grief.

The picture shows Ogeta, dressed in a simple black t-shirt and a baseball cap. His face is contorted in uncontrollable sorrow, with heavy tears streaming down his cheeks. His lips appeared to be trembling, and his steps were visibly unsteady as he made his way through the hall. This public display of raw emotion highlighted the personal bond that existed behind the scenes of public life.

A Career Forged in Elite Training

Ogeta's career in security is one of extensive and elite training. His professional instruction spans over two decades of global exposure.

• His most extensive training came from Israel's Special Forces, where he spent 15 years. He focused on counter-surveillance and rapid combat reaction skills there.
• He also trained with Russian forces for 10 years, gaining expertise in high-level personal protection.
• He received professional instruction in Afghanistan and France, each for two years. This training focused on advanced protection, intelligence gathering, and tactical response.

Tested Loyalty and Resilience

Ogeta’s devotion to Raila was severely tested in 2023. During a politically charged period, Ogeta was abducted by unknown men, who were believed to be police officers. He vanished for days. When he was finally released, he was found blindfolded and visibly shaken.

READ TOO: Raila Odinga’s Body Arrives in Kisumu on Military Aircraft Dubbed ‘ENIGMA01’

This incident served as a stark reminder of the risks associated with guarding a high-profile political figure. However, Ogeta did not waver. Despite the trauma, he returned to his post. He stood by Raila through further rallies, negotiations, and moments of national tension.

Raila Odinga died on October 15, 2025, in India. He will be buried on October 19, 2025, at the Kan'go Ka Jaramogi family home in Bondo.

His bodyguard’s emotional farewell is a central part of the national mourning period. Kenya Airways, responding to the high demand for travel, increased its flight frequency to Kisumu over the weekend to accommodate the expected travel.