Raila Odinga’s prison guard at the Naivasha Maximum Security Prison, who later became a member of parliament, says he was inspired by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s resilience and leadership.
Rashid Juma Bedzimba, the current Member of Parliament for Kisauni Constituency in Mombasa County, has one of the most inspiring career journeys in Kenya’s political landscape.
Before joining politics, he served as an officer in the General Service Unit (GSU) of the Kenya Police Service, where he was assigned to guard Raila Odinga at Naivasha Maximum Security Prison in the late 1980s.
The encounter left a lasting impression on him, and he credits Raila for inspiring his interest in leadership and public service.
Educational Background of Bedzimba Rashid
Born and raised in Mombasa, Bedzimba attended St. Anne High School, where he obtained his KCSE certificate in 1985.
He later engaged in professional and technical training, earning a diploma in County Government Management from KCA University between November 2012 and December 2015.
This was complemented by a general certificate from the same institution.
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Career life
Bedzimba’s professional journey spans police service, civil administration, and political representation.
He began his career as a General Service Unit officer with the Kenya Police Service between 1986 and 1992.
Between 1992 and 1997, he worked for Prince Ahmad Bin Salman in Saudi Arabia. He then returned to Kenya to serve as a senior officer at Kenya Bus Service from 1999 to 2001.
From 2002 to 2013, he served as a Councillor in the Mombasa Local Authority, which provided him with governance and constituency experience.
In 2013, he transitioned to national representation as MP for Kisauni, holding seats on committees such as Administration and National Security, Powers and Privileges, and Transport, Public Works, and Housing.
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After losing his seat in 2017, he served as a political adviser to the Mombasa County Government from 2018 until the 2022 election, when he returned to Parliament.
Bedzimba’s Tribute to Raila Odinga
In his tribute, Bedzimba mourned the death of Raila Odinga, describing him as a great leader and friend.
“The loss of Baba has saddened me, my entire family, ODM supporters, the entire Kisauni Constituency and all Kenyans,” he mourned.
Additionally, the MP reflected on his earlier days of service and how he was inspired by the late Raila Odinga.
“A journey which began over 35 years ago when I was serving as a GSU officer in Naivasha Maximum Prison, guarding and protecting him during his detention period, to being my political mentor and guide to date as his foot soldier,” Bedzimba said in his tribute to the late prime minister.
“He was such a great leader and friend. We hope the precious memories, legacy, guidance, and leadership will carry on in our hearts.”
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