- Kenyans were moved by the picture of Raila Odinga’s long-time bodyguard, Maurice Ogeta, shedding tears at JKIA
- A shattered Ogeta watched in agony as the casket containing his boss’ body was lowered from the KQ plane
- He had accompanied Raila to India in early October for special treatment, not knowing it would be their last trip with him alive
Nairobi – The tarmac at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport fell silent as the plane carrying the body of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga touched down.
Source: Facebook
Among the thousands of mourners who gathered on the runway, one man showed quiet compassion: Maurice Ogeta, Raila’s longtime chief bodyguard.
Ogeta shed tears at JKIA
Emotional photos captured Ogeto bursting into tears as he was taken off the plane of the airline Kenya Airways.
Ogeta, a man known for his calm and professional professionalism, could not contain his emotions as he greeted the flag-draped casket.
The cameras caught him wiping his eyes, his shoulders shaking, the pain of losing a leader and mentor spread across his face.
Ogeta had accompanied Raila to India in early October for special treatment, not knowing it would be their last trip with him alive.
Ogeta was with Raila in India
The two had been inseparable for years, Ogeta acting not only as a bodyguard but as a confidant and companion through the highs and lows of Kenyan politics.
Ogeta was by Raila’s side on the morning of October 15 when the opposition leader collapsed during a short walk outside his hotel.
Trained in emergency response, Ogeta tried to administer CPR to the politician, but the efforts were futile.
Now back home, the veteran officer faced the most difficult task of his career, protecting the remains of the man he had protected all his life.
Source: Facebook
Ogeta’s last assignment
As the motorcade carrying the casket left the airport, mourners along the route waved flags and sang songs that Raila inspired during decades of political struggle.
Ogeta sat in one of the cars, his eyes fixed on the hearse in front, a picture of dedication and sadness.
For Ogeta, the journey from India to Nairobi was not just a return home, but a farewell to the man who had taught him loyalty, courage, and dedication.
Kenyans mourn with Maurice Ogeta
Robert Nyandwaro
“To be honest with everyone including Raila’s family, this man is suffering the most in my opinion. He lost a colleague recently and now he may be out of a job.”
Pius Kipkorir
“Take heart brother. You are really going through the most difficult time in your life. Losing a friend and a boss is very difficult, may God give you strength at this time.”
Amilo Love
“You are a wonderful person, Mr. Ogeta. May God give you strength. May you be blessed.”
What you need to know about Raila’s death
The former Prime Minister died after collapsing while walking in the morning in India. He was rushed to the hospital, but efforts to revive him were unsuccessful.
President William Ruto he declared Friday, October 17, a public holiday, seven days of mourning, and that flags would fly at half-mast.
Raila will be given a full national funeral with military honors as the president will direct, making him the only non-head of state president in Kenya to receive such honours.
Read ENGLISH VERSION
Do you have an exciting story that you would like us to publish? Please contact us via news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
