Activist Kasmuel McOure has highlighted the life of Francis, a little-known bodyguard who served the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for over three decades, longer than the more widely recognised Maurice Ogeta.

Speaking on a local podcast on Saturday, October 25, 2025, Kasmuel described Francis as a quiet and humble man, deeply affected by Raila’s passing.

While other aides like Ogeta and George Oduor were well-known, Francis, slightly older than his colleagues, who chose to have a low profile, was equally formidable, commanding respect and ensuring no one could joke around with Raila.

“Francis is such a nice guy; he is a quiet man, and I think Raila’s death has really affected him because he is a true gentleman. Mostly it was George and Ogeta, but Francis was slightly older. With these three, you couldn’t joke with Raila; you could never. They could sniff,” Kasmuel said.

Kasmuel recalled his first encounter with Francis during Madaraka Day celebrations at Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay, where Francis was on duty. Raila had invited Kasmuel to accompany him, and Francis ensured his protection throughout the event.

“The first time I met with Francis directly was when he was on duty during Madaraka Day this year, which was held in Homa Bay at Raila Odinga Stadium, and Raila had wanted me to accompany him to Raila Odinga Stadium,” he added.

Miguna defending Francis

Despite serving Raila for more than 30 years, Francis’s contributions were largely overlooked during the seven-day official mourning period.

Lawyer and politician Miguna Miguna also drew attention to this, urging Kenyans to recognise all of Raila’s personal aides, not just the celebrated ones.

Miguna noted that while Ogeta served Raila for years, Francis’s loyalty spanned over three decades.

He emphasised that Francis, humble by nature, may have stayed quiet after being overshadowed by others close to State House, but he deserves recognition and respect for his unwavering service.

“There is a personal bodyguard @RailaOdinga has had for more than 30 years called FRANCIS. He was there with ODUOR, before OGETA. And Francis remained with @RailaOdinga till Raila’s death. Why is it that no one mentioned Francis’ name throughout the 7-day official mourning?” Miguna said.

“Let us remember all of @RailaOdinga’s personal protectors. I know Francis is humble and might have decided to keep quiet as he was shoved aside by those who are close to @StateHouseKenya. But he is a human being with a family. Let’s remember that,” he added

Maurice Ogeta

These events come days after the passing of the octogenarian Raila Odinga, when his bodyguard Maurice Ogeta caught the attention of Kenyans. Following the former prime minister’s death in his care, Ogeta was seen going through an emotional moment as the body of the late leader was being placed into the cabin, ready to be ferried to Kenya from India.

When the body landed at Kisumu Airport, Ogeta was spotted beside the plane that had carried it. Despite the heavy military presence, he was seen performing his usual checks around the plane, just as he had done when his boss was alive.