Senator Oburu urges President Ruto to promote Raila’s security team

Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga Odinga has appealed to President William Ruto to promote the security personnel who served former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, praising their dedication in the wake of his death.

Speaking on Sunday during the funeral service of the late leader at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, Oburu said the officers had shown unwavering loyalty, standing by Raila through illness and political challenges, and deserved recognition for their commitment.

“Your Excellency, the security personnel who have been taking care of Raila have done an outstanding job. They have kept vigil and stood by him throughout. I would like to plead with you to grant them a promotion, even just one grade,” Oburu said.

Raila died on October 15, 2025, after suffering from a cardiac arrest during a morning walk in India.

Oburu expressed deep appreciation for Dr David Oluya, who had been by Raila’s side for years, accompanying him to India for treatment as well as supporting him in Dubai and at Nairobi Hospital.

“I also want to give special thanks to Doctor David Oluya, who has been my brother’s personal doctor and has supported him throughout, including during his time in India, Dubai, and at Nairobi Hospital. I also want to thank Ogeta, who cared for Jakom up to his last breath, and Jeff for all they did,” he said.

He also acknowledged the team that repatriated Raila’s body from India, saying their efforts had been commendable and had greatly eased the family’s burden during a difficult time.

He further expressed gratitude to the wider security apparatus and government officials who facilitated Raila’s care.

“I also want to thank the security, the army and the armed forces, all of whom are under the instructions of the President. Thank you again for all that you did for us,” he said.

Among the long-serving aides who paid tribute to Raila Odinga was Maurice Ogeta, the late leader’s personal bodyguard. Ogeta described his relationship with Raila as more than professional, likening it to that of a father and son, built over years of close service and mutual trust.

He had accompanied Raila through political rallies, campaigns and moments of personal risk, and his grief was evident during the viewing of the former Prime Minister’s body in Parliament.

Supported by Narok Senator Ledama Olekina, Ogeta embraced President William Ruto, demonstrating the personal bonds that often lie behind political life.

Having served Raila through decades of public and private challenges, Ogeta remained by his side even during his final days in India. He returned to his post despite a 2023 abduction by unknown men believed to be police officers, showing his unwavering commitment.

Ogeta’s career spans over two decades of elite security training in Afghanistan, France, Israel and Russia.

Beyond his professional expertise, his tribute highlighted a deep personal connection to Raila’s life and work. Even in the final moments of the former Prime Minister’s life, Ogeta remained a steadfast presence, symbolising loyalty and dedication.

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