Raila Odinga’s Longtime Bodyguard Maurice Ogeta Appointed Mombasa Security Advisor

By Brian Kiprono - Reporter

Kenya, January 08 n2026 - Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir has appointed Maurice Ogeta, the long-serving personal bodyguard to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, as a Security Affairs Advisor to the Mombasa County Government.

The appointment was announced on Thursday, January 8, following the establishment of new positions by the Mombasa County Public Service Board. “I have today made appointments in the Executive Office of the Governor following the establishment of positions by the Mombasa County Public Service Board, in line with the provisions of the law,” Nassir said.

Confirming Ogeta’s new role, the governor cited his extensive background in security and years of frontline experience.

“Maurice Ogeta has been appointed to serve as Advisor, Security Affairs, in the County Government of Mombasa. This appointment is informed by his many years of experience and deep institutional knowledge built at local, regional, and global levels, including his service to our late Founding Party Leader, H. E. Raila Odinga, C.G.H,” Nassir said.

Ogeta is widely known for spending nearly two decades as Raila Odinga’s close protection officer, remaining a constant presence during rallies, high-risk political moments and periods of heightened tension. For 18 years, he stood just steps behind the opposition icon, entrusted with safeguarding his life through some of the country’s most volatile political episodes.

Soft-spoken and disciplined, Ogeta built a reputation as a calm professional who prioritised duty over attention. His loyalty was evident even after Raila’s death, as he accompanied his longtime principal to his final resting place at Kang’o ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County.

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In October last year, during Raila’s burial, President William Ruto announced that the national government would offer Ogeta a state appointment in recognition of his loyalty and dedication. That appointment has yet to be formalised. In Mombasa, Ogeta is expected to work closely with county leadership to address emerging and long-standing security concerns in the coastal city.

In the same announcement, Governor Nassir also appointed award-winning Kenyan actor Ken Ambani as Advisor on Creative Arts, signalling a broader effort to strengthen both security and the creative economy in the county.

“I have also appointed Ken Ambani as my Advisor on Creative Arts. His wealth of knowledge and first-hand experience in the sector will be instrumental as we work to revive and grow the creative industry in Mombasa for the benefit of our artists, youth, and the wider economy,” the governor said.

The appointments reflect Nassir’s push to tap experienced professionals as Mombasa navigates complex security and economic challenges under devolved governance.