President William Ruto paid a heartfelt tribute to Maurice Ogeta, the longtime aide and bodyguard of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga.

Speaking during Raila’s state funeral at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology in Siaya, on Sunday, October 19, 2025, Ruto praised Ogeta for his loyalty and years of service to the ODM leader.

“I must thank his security people, Maurice Ogeta especially,” Ruto said. “Thank you very much, Maurice, for standing with Raila always. I remember Maurice. In our days of ODM, this Maurice used to wipe our shoes when we came late from campaign.”

Ruto said Ogeta’s dedication showed the deep commitment of those who worked closely with Raila through his political journey. He said the government would include Ogeta and others who served Raila in efforts to protect and preserve his legacy.

“Maurice, I want to tell you, as the Government of Kenya looks after Raila’s legacy, you too will stand guard with us to look after it, together with all the other people who worked with Baba,” the President said.

Ruto hails Raila’s mentorship

Ruto thanked the Odinga family and the Nyanza community for sharing Raila with the entire country, saying he had become part of every Kenyan family.

The president also spoke of his personal relationship with Raila, describing him as his political teacher and mentor. He revealed that shortly after the 2022 General Election, he met Raila privately and promised to correct past injustices done to him.

“The contest was between a teacher and his student,” Ruto said. “Had Raila won that election, I would have won too, because his plans on housing, health, education and agriculture were the same as mine.”

Ruto reaffirmed his commitment to the partnership between his United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and Raila’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), saying both parties shared a vision for unity and progress.

“ODM will either form the next government or be part of it,” he said.