President William Ruto has announced that his government will offer a state job to Raila Odinga’s long-time bodyguard, Maurice Ogeta, in recognition of his loyalty and dedication to the late opposition leader.
Ruto made the announcement during Raila’s funeral service at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University in Bondo, where he praised Ogeta and other members of Raila’s close security team for their unwavering service over the years.
“I must thank his security people, Maurice Ogeta especially, for standing with Raila always. I remember him in our days in ODM when he would even wipe our shoes when we came late for campaigns,” the President recalled.
He assured that the government would take care of the welfare of those who worked closely with Raila, saying they had played a key role in supporting one of Kenya’s most influential political figures.
“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,” Ruto stated.
The announcement was met with applause from mourners, many of whom viewed it as a gesture of respect toward Raila’s long-serving aides, who were part of his political journey that spanned over the years until his demise while undergoing treatment in India.
According to Raila's elder brother, despite being a personal aide to the veteran politician, Ogeta was also a nephew to Raila, and hence the bond, loyalty, and trust created over the years.
Ogeta and Raila's Last Days
Ogeta was with Raila in India, where the former Prime Minister passed away. While in the foreign nation and following the developments, he was seen overwhelmed with emotions and being comforted by the Kenyan delegation that had been sent to repatriate Raila’s body back to the country.
He was also seen in an emotional moment on Friday last week, in Parliament during the public viewing, and later in Kisumu, with Kenyans recognising his unending service to Raila.
Known for his calm demeanour and being Raila’s last line of defence, throughout the proceedings, Ogeta was unable to control his emotions and appeared at his lowest, even as he tried to maintain his calm.
Ogeta Tribute to Raila
Meanwhile, Ogeta, in a tribute, wrote a moving and emotional tribute describing Raila 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.
“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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