The long-serving personal bodyguard of late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Maurice Ogeta, in a tribute, wrote a moving and emotional tribute.
In a tribute, Ogeta described Odinga as a mentor, father and comrade.
“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,” he stated.
Ogeta, who was with Odinga during his last moments in India, stated that he had served Odinga for close to 18 years until the last moment he passed on October 15, 2025.
In the message, Ogeta described his years of serving Odinga as a life-changing experience, as it shaped his personal and professional growth.
“From the opportunity you entrusted to me as your Personal Aide for close to 18 years, I confess I know no other human being on the African continent came close to you as the First Among Equals on the quest for a freer and more equal continent, outside Nelson Mandela."
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"In the historical quest for a better Kenyan nation, your legacy was marked with personal sacrifices, powers on. Thank you for being a dependable Father and Mentor,” his eulogy reads.
Ogeta was among those who accompanied Odinga to India for medical attention in the final weeks of his life.
According to reports, he was with the former Prime Minister during his routine morning walk shortly before Odinga collapsed.
He also helped oversee the preparation of Odinga’s body for repatriation to Kenya.
When Odinga's remains returned home, Ogeta could be seen in videos and photos with visible grief on his face as the plane landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
During the public viewing of Odinga's body, Ogeta could be seen breaking down in tears while leaders consoled him. President William Ruto was also seen hugging him.
In July 2023, at the height of the Azimio protests, his loyalty was tested when he was abducted by unknown individuals, blindfolded, and held for several days.
He was reportedly questioned about Odinga's activities, and his car was damaged. However, he later returned to his duties after being released.
