Raila’s trusted bodyguard George Oduor is dead

Raila Odinga’s longtime and trusted bodyguard, George Oduor, has died.
His passing has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from those close to Raila and within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
The news of Oduor’s death was confirmed on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, by Philip Etale, the ODM’s communications director, and Robert Alai, a member of the County Assembly for Kileleshwa.
“This is one man who stood by me at all cost. I have lost a friend. Big bro. Rest Easy George. Wa!” Etale wrote in a social media post, expressing his deep sorrow.

Robert Alai also paid tribute to Oduor’s dedication and service.
“Wah George Oduor! Rest In Peace my brother. I will miss your wise counsel and guidance. You were more than an aide to Baba. You offered to us brotherly advice and sought to mentor us,” Alai wrote, referring to Raila by the honorific ‘Baba’.

According to sources, Oduor passed away while receiving treatment at Nairobi West Hospital, where he had been hospitalized for the past two weeks.
Oduor’s service to the Odinga family spanned decades.
He began his career as a personal security detail for Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Raila’s father, and transitioned to become Raila Odinga’s close protection bodyguard after Jaramogi’s death.
In total, Oduor served Raila Odinga for over 30 years, becoming a trusted and integral part of his security and inner circle.
His long tenure and unwavering loyalty made him a well-known and respected figure within Kenyan political circles.
Oduor’s death marks the loss of a man who was not only a bodyguard but also a confidant and advisor to one of Kenya’s most influential political figures.
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Martin Oduor
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