Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has mourned his longest-serving bodyguard, George Oduor, who passed away on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Nairobi.
Oduor, who has been by Raila’s side from the times of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, breathed his last after a short illness, throwing the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party into mourning, with several other leaders pouring in their condolences.
Raila, on his part, noted that the aide who has served him since the late 1980s had been vigilant, calm, confident, extremely professional, dedicated to duty and a dependable rock on his side over the years through tumultuous periods.
“It is with profound shock and sadness that I announce the passing of my personal aide and bodyguard George Oduor this evening in Nairobi after a short illness,” Odinga noted in a statement.
“I will miss George, and I am sorry to the myriad friends who miss him already. To his wife, Carol George, entire family, colleagues, and friends, I offer Mama Ida’s and the entire Jaramogi family’s sincere condolences at this devastating loss,” Raila added.
Died after short illness
According to sources, Oduor passed away while receiving treatment at Nairobi West Hospital, where he had been hospitalized for the past two weeks.
ODM deputy party leader and Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir mourned Oduor as a man whose presence brought warmth to many lives.
“George was not just a friend to me personally, but a cherished member of our broader community whose presence and warmth touched the lives of many. He was a man of great integrity, quiet strength, and unwavering commitment to the values that bind us together as a people,” Nassir said.
“On behalf of the County Government of Mombasa, my family, and indeed from the depths of my own heart, I extend my deepest condolences to the family of George Oduor. May you find strength in the love he gave, comfort in the memories you shared, and peace in the knowledge that his spirit will continue to live on in all of us.”
Condolences trickle in
Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris mourned Oduor as a man who served Raila and his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga with unwavering commitment.
“George was possibly the longest-serving bodyguard. His legacy of loyalty and dedication will not be forgotten. May his soul rest in peace,” Passaris stated.
ODM youth leader Kasmuel McOure equally mourned the long-serving aide, observing that he had taught him valuable lessons within the short time of interacting with Raila.
“George was one of the kindest souls I’ve ever met around Jakom. He saw it all through the years and taught me so much in such a short time about being by His Excellency’s side. On our last occasion together, he taught me the intricacies of being with a VIP in public,” McOure stated.