By Anderson Ojwang
When the casket of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga arrived at Kango village in Bondo for burial in 1994, one of his main security personnel stood by the hearse to oversee the removal of the body.
The guard remained dedicated to his master in death, just like he was in life. He gave his life to Jaramogi and later surrendered his selfless service to his son.
And this could have caught the eyes of his younger son, Raila Amolo Odinga, a budding and emerging ambitious politician.
The death of Jaramogi opened a power struggle in his Ford-K party that pitted his son Raila and the claimed ‘heir’ apparent and legal advisor James Orengo.
While Orengo inherited a majority of MPs from Nyanza in his quest to become the vice chairman to Wamalwa Kijana and a section of Jaramogi’s security, Raila remained with a gem.
In George Oduor, Raila got the best inheritance from his father in terms of his security and ideology.
Oduor, became the cornerstone to Raila’s safety and security and took bullets and teargas to ensure his boss was safe.
In Oduor, Raila’s safety was guaranteed, and he became the voice of reasoning, sobriety, love and truthfulness in ODM leader camp.
Raila, in his press statement, recognized Oduor’s selfless role in his safety and security and termed him as an extraordinary person.
“It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that I mourn the passing of my trusted bodyguard, confidant, and friend, George Oduor. For decades, George stood by my side with unflinching courage, unwavering loyalty, and an unmatched sense of duty. He was not just a protector of my life but a guardian of the principles we hold dear.
George’s selfless service transcended mere duty; it was a testament to his extraordinary character. In moments of peril and uncertainty, he remained steadfast, embodying the very essence of bravery and sacrifice. His dedication to safeguarding others, even at great personal risk, leaves a legacy of heroism that will forever inspire those who knew him.
To George’s family, friends, and loved ones: I share in your grief and pray that you find solace in the knowledge that his life was one of profound purpose and impact. George’s name will be etched in the annals of our shared history as a man who gave his all for a cause greater than himself.
May God grant him eternal peace and grant you strength during this difficult time. Rest In Peace, George. Your watch may have ended, but your courage and spirit will never be forgotten.“
Former Jaramogi and Raila aide and currently chairman of the Luo Council of Elders, Mzee Odungi Randa, termed the death of Oduor as unfortunate and sad.
He said Oduor joined Jaramogi security details with the likes of MCA Lumumba Owade, Majjmbo, Orero Kaparo, Nyam, and they were dedicated to the core.
“Oduor rose to become Raila’s main security man. He was such a humble person, trustworthy and loyal. He remained faithful to Raila and to the ideology,” he said.
