Promises made to Maurice, Raila’s bodyguard
President William Ruto took a moment to honor Maurice Ogeta, a longtime aide to Raila Odinga, expressing his commitment to include him in efforts to preserve the former Prime Minister’s legacy.
During Raila’s funeral on Sunday, October 19, Ruto praised Ogeta for his unwavering loyalty and years of dedicated service, reminiscing about their shared experiences in the political arena under the ODM Party.
“I must thank Raila Odinga’s security people, Maurice Ogeta especially. Thank you very much, Maurice, for standing with Raila always. I remember Maurice; in our days of ODM, this Maurice used to wipe our shoes when we came late from campaign,” he said.
Ruto assured everyone that the government is committed to keeping Ogeta involved in the efforts to honor and preserve Raila’s legacy.
“Maurice, I want to tell you, the Government of Kenya, as we look after Raila’s legacy, you too will stand guard with us to look after Raila’s legacy,” he added.
On Friday, October 17, Ogeta was overcome with emotion as he wept when the late Prime Minister’s body was laid in state at the Parliament Buildings in Nairobi.
Ruto, who was there with senior government officials to pay their respects to the ODM leader, noticed Ogeta’s tears and stepped forward to offer some comfort.
In a heartfelt moment, the Head of State embraced Ogeta, sharing some kind words to help ease his pain.
Ruto was also seen holding the hands of Raila’s bodyguard, showing a deep sense of empathy and solidarity.
Senator Ledama Olekina from Narok, who was alongside Ogeta, took his hands and gently guided him to the side.
Ogeta, a devoted bodyguard to Raila, had stayed by his side during his treatment in India.
After Raila’s passing, Ogeta, along with Winnie Odinga, welcomed the Kenyan delegation that came to oversee the repatriation of the former Prime Minister’s remains back to Nairobi.
In videos shared by Nairobileoco.ke, Ogeta was visibly distraught as Raila’s body was being loaded onto the plane for the journey home.
He received comfort from Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi and other members of the delegation in a moment that quickly went viral.
When Raila’s body arrived at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), Ogeta’s sorrow was palpable; viral photos captured him in tears as Raila’s body was taken off the aircraft.
Promises made to Maurice, Raila’s bodyguard
