Who is Maurice Ogeta? Raila Odinga’s Loyal Chief Bodyguard and Security Aide

Maurice Ogeta is a highly respected Kenyan security expert and the long-serving chief bodyguard of the late Raila Odinga, the prominent opposition leader and former Prime Minister of Kenya. He was seen by Odinga’s side during his final public moments in India, just before Odinga tragically collapsed and died on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.

Who is Maurice Ogeta? Early Life and Background

Maurice Ogeta hails from Kondele in Kisumu County, in the Nyanza region of Kenya. Despite his high-profile role, he has always kept his personal and family life private. His family resides in Komolo, Uyoma, and they came into the public spotlight during his abduction in 2023, when they appealed for his safe return.

Education and Elite Security Training

Ogeta is known for his exceptional professional training. Over the past two decades, he has undergone extensive military and security instruction in several countries:

• Afghanistan – 2 years

• France – 2 years

• Israel – 15 years (Special Forces training)

• Russia – 10 years

His expertise includes intelligence gathering, counter-surveillance, rapid combat response, and high-level personal protection. Remarkably, he is reported to be multilingual, fluent in over 15 international languages, including German, Russian, Arabic, and Chinese—a rare skill set in the security field.

Career and Role with Raila Odinga

Maurice Ogeta has been active in the security sector for over 25 years, but his most significant position has been serving as Raila Odinga’s chief bodyguard and closest security aide. He became a familiar face to Kenyans due to his constant presence beside Odinga during rallies, political crises, and international engagements.

In July 2023, Ogeta was abducted in Nairobi amid national protests. Raila Odinga’s communications director, Phillip Etale, confirmed that unknown individuals believed to be police officers took him to an undisclosed location. After being released, Ogeta resumed his duties with unwavering loyalty.

Final Mission with Odinga in 2025

In October 2025, Maurice Ogeta travelled with Raila Odinga to India, where the former prime minister passed away. In the viral video of Odinga’s final morning walk, Ogeta was seen just steps behind him—continuing his duty until the very end.

Maurice Ogeta remains a symbol of loyalty, discipline, and elite protection, known for his quiet strength and commitment to safeguarding one of Kenya’s most influential political leaders.