- Colonel Paul Denge, Raila Odinga’s long-time pilot, described the late leader as a hero and personal role model, after piloting him for more than 20 years
- Denge recalled the dangerous trip in 2022 in Uasin Gishu when the helicopter was attacked by youths, praising Raila for his calmness during the incident
- He said driving Raila felt very different from any other leader, noting the courage and calmness that left him a personal memory
As Kenya continues to mourn the death of one of its most influential leaders, heartfelt tributes have continued to be paid by those who knew him well.
Source: Youtube
Among them is Colonel Paul Denge, Raila’s long-time pilot, who shared personal memories of carrying the opposition leader for at least more than two decades.
Now retired, the experienced pilot describes the late Prime Minister as “a brave man” and a personal role model.
How did Denge mourn Raila?
Colonel Denge, who has been a pilot for 45 years, spent almost half of that time carrying Raila to various activities in the country.
He said the political death of the leader that happened in India while he was being treated was a very personal matter for him.
Denge recalled that although he had carried many leaders, including the current and former president, no one was as confident and calm as Raila.
“For 45 years I have been a pilot and out of those 45 years, almost 20 years, I have been transporting Baba. Father’s death has hurt me personally, and I am sure also for the family and the whole of Kenya. I have transported many leaders, including the current president, the former president and others, but Baba was the bravest leader I have ever carried,” the pilot said.
How does Denge remember Raila’s leadership?
Denge recalled that their travels were not without danger, sharing a dangerous incident during the 2022 General Election.
The pilot said it was one of the most reported incidents, describing it as the most terrifying incident.
In the event of April 2022, the helicopter that was taking the leader of Declaration of Unity was stoned by unruly youths in Kebenes, Uasin Gishu county.
The incident occurred soon after the burial of Elder Jackson Kibor in Samitui farm, and destroyed the air defense of the helicopter.
Organized aliens targeted the plane during the angry incident, putting the pilot and all passengers at risk.
Denge recalled that during the incident, Raila showed unwavering courage and steadfast leadership.
“We have found ourselves going through many challenges with him, but the only one that I see the nation knows is when I was in Iten, my helicopter was attacked by bandits with Father in it, and somehow we were able to pass. Among the leaders who were with me and Father at that time, only Father told me to be shocked, do this and that, and I will not say anything about the others,” he remembered.
Source: Twitter
Over the years, Denge developed great respect for Odinga, not only for his political work but also for his personal character.
Although Denge has retired from direct aviation, he continues to manage flight operations at Wilson Airport, remaining involved in the aviation industry.
“He has been an example to me in many ways, and I personally feel the pain of losing him. Now I have retired from aviation. We thank God, because we are all headed in the same direction, and we know that one day we will meet the Father,” he said.
The pilot who carried Raila’s body from India speaks
Elsewhere, Captain Saviemaria Ondego, the pilot who transported Raila’s body from India to Kenyadescribed the trip as “unusual.”
The experience weighed heavily on him, combining grief, honor, and a great sense of duty.
He said even speaking when he was asked to start the journey was difficult for him.
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