Maurice Ogeta, the longtime bodyguard of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, has touched the hearts of many Kenyans with his emotional display during the statesman’s final journey.
For decades, Ogeta stood steadfastly by Raila’s side, vigilant, composed, and ever watchful safeguarding the veteran politician both at home and abroad.
From political rallies and state functions to private family events, Ogeta’s calm presence became a familiar and reassuring sight to those who followed Raila’s public life.
Raila Odinga’s Bodyguard Maurice Ogeta Moves Kenyans with Emotional Tribute. Photo: Courtesy.
His unwavering professionalism and loyalty earned him recognition as one of the most trusted members of Raila’s inner circle.
In the final days of Raila’s life, Ogeta was among the few who accompanied him to India, where the ODM leader was receiving medical treatment, remaining by his side until the very end.
After Raila Odinga’s death, Maurice Ogeta, alongside Raila’s daughter Winnie Odinga, received the Kenyan delegation sent to oversee the repatriation of the former Prime Minister’s remains from India to Nairobi.
Videos shared online showed Ogeta breaking down in tears as Raila’s body was loaded onto the plane for its journey home.
He was comforted by Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi and other members of the delegation in a deeply moving moment that quickly went viral.
At Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), Ogeta’s grief was once again evident.
Viral photos captured him in tears as Raila’s casket was offloaded, surrounded by family members and colleagues who consoled him in his moment of sorrow.
Later that evening, he was seen at Lee Funeral Home, still visibly emotional.
As images and videos of his pain spread across social media, Kenyans from all walks of life expressed deep sympathy and admiration for his loyalty and devotion to the late leader.
Raila Odinga passed away on the morning of Wednesday, October 15, after suffering a cardiac arrest during a morning walk in Kerala, India.
He was pronounced dead at 9:52 a.m. Indian time.
