Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has broken his silence following the death of his long-time aide and bodyguard George Oduor.
In a statement on Wednesday evening, April 2, Raila mourned Oduor as a dedicated figure who had been a part of both his and his father Jaramogi Oginga Odinga's family since the late 1980s.
Additionally, he highlighted Oduor’s commitment and professionalism, pointing out his vigilance and calm nature even in tumultuous times.
"George has been a part of Jaramogi's and my family since the late 80s. We have stood, fallen, and risen together. He has been a vigilant, calm, confident, and extremely professional aide dedicated to duty and a dependable rock on my side all these years through tumultuous periods," he said.
Raila extended his and the Jaramogi family's condolences to Oduor’s wife as well as his entire family, colleagues and friends.
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"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," he concluded.
Oduor passed away earlier Wednesday at the Nairobi West Hospital where he had been receiving treatment.
Following the tragic news, tributes poured in from political leaders and associates following the news of his passing.
Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai wrote on X, "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."
ODM Communications Director Philip Etale also mourned the loss, describing Oduor as a steadfast friend and confidant.
"This is one man who stood by me at all costs. I have lost a friend. Rest easy George," Etale said in an emotional statement.
Nairobi Women Rep Esther Passaris also expressed her condolences following Oduor's passing, stating, "My deepest condolences to the family and friends of George Oduor, a loyal and dedicated protector who served as a bodyguard to both Baba, Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, and his father, the late 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."
On the other hand, Siaya Governor James Orengo remembered Oduor as a humble and sober man, writing, "Today I mourn a true friend, a trusted aide and soldier to Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga. For more than three decades, George Oduor has been a partner and comrade in the struggle, he has journeyed with us through the good and bad. He always called me "Nera" when we met; a humble gentleman has departed.
"George tolerated all the fuss that came with being around politics, always sober and never lost his mind, he was the true gentleman of VIP protection. Oduor was exactly who we needed at the most difficult and trying moments. We will dearly miss him. May his soul rest in eternal peace."
