The death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga on October 15, 2025, has plunged Kenya into deep mourning. Among those most visibly affected is his longtime bodyguard, Maurice Ogeta, whose emotional tribute and heartfelt grief have deeply moved the nation.
Two Decades of Loyalty and Service
For nearly twenty years, Ogeta stood faithfully by Raila’s side — through rallies, protests, elections, and national milestones. To him, protecting Raila was not merely a job but a sacred duty anchored in respect, loyalty, and personal devotion. In his tribute, Ogeta described their relationship as one founded on trust and mutual admiration, comparing it to that of a father and son. He credited Raila, fondly known as Jakom, with shaping his values, leadership, and outlook on life.
“He Was Like a Father to Me”
Ogeta’s message expressed gratitude and reverence for the man he considered both mentor and patriarch. He described Raila as a beacon of courage, justice, and freedom — a leader who inspired generations across Africa to believe in democracy and equality. His tribute placed Raila among the continent’s greatest icons, those whose vision and sacrifice helped shape modern African politics.
A Nation Moved by His Tears
When Raila’s body arrived at Parliament for public viewing, Ogeta’s grief was impossible to hide. Typically composed and disciplined, he broke down in tears as he approached the casket — a moment that was widely shared across social media. Dressed in simple black attire, he bowed his head in silence, representing the quiet agony of a man who had spent much of his life safeguarding a national hero.
A Life Defined by Discipline and Courage
Behind Ogeta’s visible sorrow lies a story of endurance and unwavering duty. His career in personal protection spans more than two decades of elite training and international experience. Having trained in several countries, Ogeta mastered advanced counter-surveillance, intelligence, and tactical response skills — qualities that made him one of the most trusted members of Raila’s inner circle.
In 2023, his loyalty faced a severe test when he was abducted during a tense political period. After several days missing, he returned shaken but undeterred, resuming his duties beside Raila with renewed commitment. That experience only deepened his sense of purpose and devotion.
A Farewell of Loyalty and Love
As Kenya prepares to lay Raila Odinga to rest in Bondo, Siaya County, Maurice Ogeta’s tribute stands as a powerful testament to loyalty and humanity. His tears, seen by millions, reflect not just the loss of a leader but the personal pain of a man whose life was intertwined with service, sacrifice, and love for his mentor. In mourning Raila Odinga, Ogeta reminds Kenyans that true devotion lives quietly — not in titles or speeches, but in steadfast presence until the very end.
