Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir has appointed former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's long-time personal bodyguard, Maurice Ogeta, as a security advisor to the Mombasa County government.
The appointment was announced on Thursday, January 8, through a statement by the governor, following the creation of new positions by the Mombasa County Public Service Board.
“I have today made appointments in the Executive Office of the Governor following the establishment of positions by the Mombasa County Public Service Board, in line with the provisions of the law,” Nassir said.
He confirmed that Ogeta will serve as Advisor, Security Affairs, citing his long experience in the security sector and exposure at different levels of service.
“Maurice Ogeta has been appointed to serve as Advisor, Security Affairs, in the County Government of Mombasa. This appointment is informed by his many years of experience and deep institutional knowledge built at local, regional, and global levels, including his service to our late Founding Party Leader, H. E. Raila Odinga, C.G.H.”
In the same announcement, the governor named Kenyan award-winning actor Ken Ambani as his Advisor on Creative Arts as part of efforts to strengthen the sector in the coastal county.
“I have also appointed Ken Ambani as my Advisor on Creative Arts. His wealth of knowledge and first-hand experience in the sector will be instrumental as we work to revive and grow the creative industry in Mombasa for the benefit of our artists, youth, and the wider economy.”
During the burial of Raila in October last year, President William Ruto announced that his government would offer a state job to Ogeta, in recognition of his loyalty and dedication to the late opposition leader.
However, the President has yet to formalise Ogeta's appointment. Ogeta is expected to work closely with the Mombasa County government to address key security issues within the devolved unit.
For 18 years, Ogeta stood watch, always just a step behind the late Raila during rallies and pivotal political moments that shaped both the veteran politician's career and the nation’s history.
Known for his calm demeanor and as a man of few words, Ogeta’s primary duty was to protect Raila at all costs. Even in passing, he remained by his leader’s side, accompanying him to his final resting place at Kang’o ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County.
As Raila Odinga’s bodyguard, Ogeta frequently faced dangerous situations, particularly during tense anti-government protests.
