Nairobi's air was thick with grief as a stately convoy of high-end vehicles glided solemnly through the streets of Nairobi, escorting the body of George Oduor, the devoted bodyguard of ODM leader Raila Odinga.
The hearse, its polished frame reflecting the overcast skies, bore the man who had stood unwaveringly by Raila's side for decades, his silent presence a shield in Kenya's stormy political arena.
Oduor, a pillar of strength in Raila's inner circle, succumbed to a brief illness, leaving behind a void not only in the security detail of the former Prime Minister but also in the hearts of those who knew him.
His remains were transferred from Nairobi West Hospital to the Montezuma Funeral Home, a journey marked by the weight of sorrow and respect.
The convoy included Toyota V8s and Land Rover Discovery among other fuel guzzlers.
As the hearse moved, traffic yielded, as though the city itself understood the significance of the man being honoured. Mourners unable to hold back their tears.
At Montezuma, the scene was even more heartrending as Oduor's casket was gently lowered from the vehicle and wheeled into the morgue. A mini-service was held, the echoes of grief mingling with soft prayers and quiet sobs.
ODM dignitaries, including Maurice Ochieng alias Mdomo Baggy, as well as Raila's trusted allies like Silas Jakakimba, stood sombrely, ensuring that every detail of Oduor's final journey was handled with the dignity he deserved.
Earlier, Raila Odinga shared the depth of their bond in a post announcing Oduor's death.
"George has been a part of Jaramogi's and my family since the late '80s. We have stood, fallen, and risen together. He was vigilant, calm, confident, and extremely professional-a dependable rock by my side through some of the most tumultuous periods of my life. His absence will be felt deeply."
Oduor's dedication earned him admiration and respect, a silent yet formidable presence in Kenya's political landscape.
ODM, in an official statement, honoured his service: "We mourn the passing of Mr. George Oduor, the longest-serving aide to our Party Leader @RailaOdinga. A respectful, sociable, and highly professional security officer. We shall miss him dearly. To our Party Leader, pole sana for your loss."
Siaya Governor James Orengo also paid tribute, "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."
Lang'ata MP Phelix Jalang'o wrote, "Served well... Rest well George!"
