President Ruto attends funeral of Raila's aide in Siaya

President William Ruto is attending the funeral service of George Oduor, a longtime aide to opposition leader Raila Odinga, in Siaya County.

The ceremony is taking place at Ramba High School, with Odinga and several other prominent leaders in attendance.

George passed away on April 2, 2025, while receiving medical care at a Nairobi hospital.

During a tribute on April 10, Raila remembered George as a man of outstanding character—genuine, kind-hearted, and deeply trustworthy.

"Though many knew him as a bodyguard, he was far more than that. He officially took up the role in 1995, but his journey with us started much earlier," Raila said.

"He had been part of the youth team that offered security to my father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, and supported the FORD leadership. His loyalty was unwavering."

The former PM described how George wasn't just his security aide but also a recognizable figure within Kenya’s opposition movement.

"He was part of the youth group that operated from Nairobi’s Agip House, providing security to key Ford Kenya leaders, including Jaramogi, Paul Muite, Wamalwa Kijana, and James Orengo," said Raila.

"He stayed when others defected. He never backed down, even when the price was arrest and imprisonment."

Raila Odinga recounted how, during the turbulent period leading up to the 1997 general elections, George was arrested and detained at Kamiti Maximum Prison for nearly a year after being associated with the “No Reforms, No Elections” movement.

"George had no part in the actions that led to his arrest, yet he endured the ordeal with quiet strength and dignity," Raila said.

He also recalled that when Jaramogi Oginga Odinga passed away in 1994, George was among six young men selected to accompany the late leader’s body from Nairobi to Bondo.

"Even in mourning, George remained composed—firm in handling crowds, respectful, and calm despite the pressure. Those were qualities that defined him throughout his life," Raila reflected.

"George’s passing is not just the close of a chapter—it’s the celebration of a legacy. A legacy built on humility, loyalty, and service."