'Father and mentor': Raila's bodyguard Maurice Ogeta pays emotional tribute

In his written tribute shared during the State Funeral service, Maurice recalled the nearly 18 years of service as Raila's personal aide where the bond grew to a personal level. 

He recollected the 'near-son relationship' that developed during Raila’s political tenure. 

Ogeta also delved into Raila’s historical contributions, drawing parallels with South Africa’s first president, the late Nelson Mandela. 

"I confess I know no other human being on the African continent came close to you as the First Among Equals on the quest for a freer and more equal continent, outside Nelson Mandela," Ogeta states. 

"In the historical quest for a better Kenyan nation, your legacy was marked with personal sacrifices, powers on. Thank you for being a dependable Father and Mentor."

The State Funeral Service held at Nyayo Stadium, Nairobi, comprised heartfelt speeches from different political figures and family members who talked about their relationship with the Former Prime Minister.

Raila’s widow, Mama Ida Odinga, reminisced about their 52 years of marriage during her tribute. 

"I first met Raila way back in the early 70s, and we got married in 1973. For that reason, I've lived with this man for 52 years. Many of the people in this stadium could easily be our children; no wonder you call him Baba," she stated.

Raila’s daughter, Winnie Odinga, described her father as not only a national icon but also a devoted father and a source of strength for the family.

“I don’t know who I’ll miss more... my dad or my superhero. I am the luckiest girl in the world because you were my dad,” she noted. 

The four-day funeral programme for Raila will culminate in a private burial ceremony held in Bondo, Siaya County on Sunday.