Former Prime Minister the late Raila Odinga’s longtime bodyguard, Maurice Ogeta, has revealed his last moments, stating that it is an effort to clarify the false information surrounding the matter.
Ogeta was speaking at Raila’s Karen home on June 1, during the presentation of Gor Mahia’s 22nd league title in honor of the club’s late patron.
The longtime aide, who stood by Raila for nearly two decades, said he felt compelled to set the record straight after conflicting reports emerged about how the veteran leader died while in India in October last year.
Ogeta described Raila not just as a boss, but as a father figure and close friend, saying their relationship went beyond security duties to deep personal trust built over many years.
Raila’s Final Moments in India
Turning to the events of October 15, 2025, Ogeta gave a detailed account of Raila’s last moments, dismissing claims that he collapsed abruptly or died in bed.
He said that on that morning, they followed their usual routine of light exercise within the compound where Raila was staying.
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According to him, the exercise was not strenuous, as they were simply walking around a short path measuring about 50 meters.
They had planned to complete several rounds, but Raila only managed to finish one full round before showing signs of stopping during the second.
“We just went round the villa once. He never overdid anything. Raila had actually wanted to go 5 rounds,” Ogeta stated.
Ogeta explained that the former Prime Minister did not fall or collapse as widely reported but instead came to a gradual stop while still on his feet.
Concerned, he moved closer and asked if there was any problem or if he could assist.
He said Raila did not respond fully, managing only to utter a brief sound before going silent.
“It was very unfortunate. I was just a metre away from him,” Ogeta said, noting that the moment still weighs heavily on him.
He added that the experience has been difficult to process, given how close they were and the many years they had spent working side by side.
Ogeta’s Trust and Loyalty
Ogeta used the moment to reflect on the trust Raila had placed in him throughout his life, saying it was rare and deeply personal.
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He said there were moments when Raila would specifically consult him on how to assist the club financially during difficult periods, showing how deeply invested he was in its success.
Ogeta also recalled occasions when Raila allowed him to use official vehicles for personal errands, including attending Gor Mahia matches, which demonstrated the level of trust between them.
At one point, he said Raila even released his official car and security convoy so he could attend a football event, choosing to walk and exercise on his own.
Ogeta said this level of trust showed the type of leader Raila was, and why many people considered him a father figure.
He also acknowledged the continued support he received from the Odinga family, saying they treated him as one of their own.
While addressing Gor Mahia officials and players, Ogeta praised the club for honoring Raila, noting that football remained one of his greatest passions.
He said Raila always believed in the team’s potential and pushed its leadership to aim for success, including winning the league title.
The presentation of the 22nd title, he added, was a fitting tribute to a leader who remained committed to the club until his final days.
Ogeta concluded by saying that although Raila is no longer present, his legacy lives on through the institutions and people he impacted, including Gor Mahia and the wider Kenyan public.
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