Bondo, Siaya County — President William Ruto has announced that Maurice Ogeta, Raila Odinga’s long-serving bodyguard, will be offered a state job in recognition of his loyalty and years of unwavering service to the late opposition leader.
Speaking during Raila’s funeral at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology on Sunday, Ruto paid tribute to Ogeta and other members of Raila’s close security team, describing them as men who stood by their boss through the highs and lows of Kenya’s political storms.
“I must thank his security people — Maurice Ogeta especially — for standing with Raila always,” Ruto said to warm applause. “I remember him in our days in ODM when he would even wipe our shoes when we came late for campaigns.”
A Promise to Honour Loyalty
Ruto assured the mourners that the government would look after those who had served Raila faithfully.
“Maurice, I want to tell you that as this government preserves Raila’s legacy, we will also take care of you and all those who looked after him,” he said.
The announcement drew a standing ovation from the thousands gathered in Bondo, many viewing it as a symbolic act of gratitude towards Raila’s aides — men who had walked beside him through decades of struggle, triumph, and sacrifice.
According to Raila’s elder brother, Ogeta was not only his personal aide but also a nephew, a bond that deepened their mutual trust and closeness over the years.
By Raila’s Side to the End
Ogeta was among the few who travelled with Raila to India, where the former Prime Minister passed away while receiving medical treatment. Witnesses say he was visibly distraught as Kenyan officials made arrangements to repatriate the body home.
At Parliament during the public viewing and later in Kisumu, Ogeta was seen overcome with emotion — his trademark composure slipping as grief took hold.
Known for his calm and stoic demeanour, he had long been Raila’s last line of defence — a silent guardian through countless rallies, campaigns, and moments of danger. But in these final days, the man who had stood firm through everything appeared broken.
A Personal Farewell
In a heartfelt written tribute, Ogeta described Raila as a mentor, father figure, and comrade whose influence shaped his life both personally and professionally.
“Jakom, the commitment in the years-old service to and under you — and the close nexus that blossomed into comradeship and a near-son relationship — have seen me grow into what I am today,” he wrote.
Reflecting on their 18 years together, Ogeta added: “I know no other human being on the African continent came close to you as the First Among Equals in the quest for a freer and more equal continent, outside Nelson Mandela.”
For many watching the ceremony, Ruto’s gesture marked an extraordinary moment — a sitting president honouring the loyal aide of his former political rival. It was a moment that transcended politics, paying homage not only to Raila’s towering legacy but also to the quiet devotion of those who stood faithfully behind him.