‘Devastating Loss,’ Raila Mourns His Bodyguard Oduor

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, is grieving the sudden loss of his long-serving bodyguard and personal aide, George Oduor, who passed away this evening at Nairobi West Hospital following a brief illness.

Oduor, a steadfast presence by Odinga’s side for over three decades, was more than just a security detail—he was family, a confidant, and a pillar of strength through some of Kenya’s most turbulent political chapters.

In a heartfelt statement released tonight, Odinga expressed his “profound shock and sadness” at Oduor’s passing, noting that the bodyguard had been a part of the Odinga family since the late 1980s.

“George has been a part of Jaramogi’s and my family since the late 80’s. We have stood, fallen, and risen together,” Odinga said, referring to his late father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first vice president. Oduor initially served Jaramogi before transitioning to Raila’s security team after Jaramogi’s death in 1994.

Odinga painted a vivid picture of Oduor’s character, describing him as “vigilant, calm, confident, and extremely professional.” He added, “He has been a dedicated aide and dependable rock on my side all these years through tumultuous periods. I will miss George, and I am sorry to the myriad friends who miss him already.”

The ODM  leader extended his condolences to Oduor’s wife, Carol George, their family, colleagues, and friends, joined by his wife, Mama Ida, and the entire Jaramogi family. “May the almighty rest his soul in eternal peace,” he concluded.

Oduor’s death comes after a two-week hospitalization, though the specific cause of his illness remains undisclosed.

Known for his physical prowess and dedication, Oduor grew up in Nairobi’s Eastlands area of Kaloleni and was a police reservist with specialized VIP protection training, both in Kenya and abroad.

His towering presence was a familiar sight at political rallies and public events, safeguarding Odinga through decades of opposition struggles and presidential campaigns.

The news sent shockwaves through Kenya’s political circles, prompting an outpouring of tributes.

Philip Etale, ODM’s Communications Director, took to X to mourn Oduor as a “steadfast friend,” while Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai hailed him as a mentor, writing, “You were more than an aide to Baba. I will miss your wise counsel.”

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir and former Nairobi senatorial candidate Millicent Omanga also joined the chorus of condolences, with Omanga noting, “We thank George Oduor for his sacrifice and dedication in protecting Raila for us for decades.”

Oduor’s passing marks a personal blow to Odinga, who recently faced a political setback in his February 2025 bid for the African Union Commission Chairperson post.