George Oduor, the trusted bodyguard who served former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for over three decades, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of loyalty and quiet strength.
The news, confirmed by close family sources this afternoon, has sent ripples of sorrow through political circles and among Odinga’s supporters, who regarded Oduor as a steadfast figure by the opposition leader’s side.
Oduor, aged 58, reportedly succumbed to an undisclosed illness on Tuesday evening at a Nairobi hospital, ending a remarkable 30-year tenure protecting one of Kenya’s most prominent politicians.
Known for his towering presence and unwavering dedication, Oduor joined Odinga’s security detail in the early 1990s during a turbulent period of political activism and has since been a constant companion through campaigns, protests, and personal milestones.
Raila Odinga, now the African Union Commission Chairperson candidate, expressed his grief in a brief statement shared on X: “George Oduor was more than a bodyguard—he was family. His loyalty and courage will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, my friend.”The post, made at 3:47 p.m. EAT, quickly garnered thousands of condolences from Kenyans mourning the loss.
Details surrounding Oduor’s death remain limited, with family members requesting privacy as they prepare for his burial. Sources close to the Odinga camp described him as a private man who rarely spoke to the press but was deeply respected within security and political circles.
“He was the kind of person who’d take a bullet for Raila without hesitation,” said a former aide, speaking anonymously.
Oduor’s career began in the Kenya Police Service before he transitioned to private security, eventually becoming Odinga’s personal bodyguard during the height of the pro-democracy movement.
His presence was a fixture at rallies, often seen shielding Odinga from crowds or escorting him through tense moments, including the infamous 1997 teargas incidents and the 2017 election unrest.
Tributes poured in online, with Azimio coalition leaders and ordinary citizens alike honoring Oduor’s service. “A silent hero who stood by Baba for 30 years—RIP George Oduor,” wrote Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna on X.
Others recalled his calm demeanor and professionalism, traits that earned him admiration beyond politics.
Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced, though it’s expected Odinga will play a key role in honoring his longtime protector.
As Kenya reflects on Oduor’s life, his passing marks the end of an era for a man whose loyalty defined decades of Odinga’s public journey.
