The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Related Articles
President William Ruto is attending the funeral of George Oduor, a close aide to Raila Odinga, in Siaya County.
The ceremony is taking place at Ramba High School.
Also present is Raila Odinga, alongside other dignitaries and leaders.
George Oduor passed away on April 2, 2025, while receiving treatment at a hospital in Nairobi.
On April 10, Raila paid tribute to him, describing George as a man of integrity—genuine, kind-hearted, and deeply trustworthy.
“He was more than just a bodyguard in political circles. Though he officially took on that role in 1995, George had been part of our inner circle long before then,” Raila noted.
He shared that George was active during the pro-democracy struggles of the 1990s, originally serving in the youth wing that protected Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and FORD party leaders.
“His loyalty was unwavering,” Raila added.
To many, George was not just a security aide to ‘Baba’—he was a symbol of dedication in opposition politics. He was involved with the youth group based at Agip House in Nairobi, which provided protection for prominent Ford Kenya leaders like Jaramogi, Paul Muite, Wamalwa Kijana, and James Orengo.
“He remained steadfast when others gave up. Even when it led to his arrest and detention, he never flinched,” Raila said.
During the tense lead-up to the 1997 elections, George was jailed for nearly a year at Kamiti Maximum Prison over alleged involvement in the “No Reforms, No Elections” movement—claims Raila said were unfounded. “He endured it all with silent strength.”
When Jaramogi died in 1994, George was one of six young men chosen to accompany the late leader’s body from Nairobi to Bondo. “Despite the sorrow, he was calm, respectful, and composed—traits that defined who he was throughout his life,” Raila recalled.
Even as political landscapes changed over the years, George remained loyal and was later appointed as Raila’s personal aide—an assignment that demanded far more than just guarding him. It required integrity, trust, and deep commitment.
“George’s passing isn’t just the end of an era—it’s a moment to honor a remarkable legacy of humility, loyalty, and unwavering service.”
He leaves behind family and friends who remember him as much more than just a protector.
