Raila Odinga’s Longtime Bodyguard Appointed Security Advisor by Mombasa Governor
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir has appointed Maurice Ogeta, a longtime personal bodyguard to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, as a Security Advisor in the Mombasa County Government, a move that has drawn public attention due to Ogeta’s long-standing association with one of Kenya’s most prominent political figures.
The appointment was announced on Thursday, January 8, through an official statement issued by the governor, following the establishment of new advisory positions by the Mombasa County Public Service Board. The new roles are part of broader efforts by the county administration to strengthen governance, security coordination, and sectoral development.
Speaking while announcing the appointments, Governor Nassir said the decisions were made in accordance with the law and after the relevant positions were formally created.
“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 stated.
According to the governor, Ogeta’s appointment was informed by his extensive experience in the security sector, where he has served in various capacities over several years. Ogeta is widely known for his role as a close personal aide and bodyguard to Raila Odinga during high-profile political engagements, both locally and internationally.
Governor Nassir emphasized that Ogeta’s background equips him with valuable institutional knowledge that will be critical in advising the county on security matters.
“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,” the governor said.
He further acknowledged Ogeta’s previous service, noting its significance in shaping his professional expertise.
“This includes his service to our late Founding Party Leader, H. E. Raila Odinga, C.G.H.,” Nassir added.
While the role of Security Advisor is advisory in nature, county officials say it is expected to enhance coordination between the county administration, national security agencies, and community stakeholders at a time when urban security and public safety remain key concerns in major cities such as Mombasa.
In the same announcement, Governor Nassir also appointed award-winning Kenyan actor and filmmaker Ken Ambani as Advisor on Creative Arts, signaling the county’s intention to invest more heavily in the creative economy.
Ambani, who has built a career in film, television, and theatre, is expected to provide strategic guidance on policies aimed at revitalizing Mombasa’s creative sector, which employs a large number of young people.
“I have also appointed Ken Ambani as my Advisor on Creative Arts,” Nassir said.
He noted that Ambani’s industry experience would play a central role in unlocking opportunities for artists and strengthening creative enterprises across the coastal region.
“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 added.
The twin appointments reflect a broader approach by the Mombasa County Government to bring in professionals with practical experience to support policy implementation and sectoral growth. Analysts note that such advisory roles have increasingly become a feature of county administrations seeking specialized expertise outside traditional public service structures.
As the appointees assume their new roles, attention is likely to focus on how their experience translates into tangible outcomes, particularly in enhancing security coordination and expanding opportunities within the creative industry in Mombasa.
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Raila Odinga’s Longtime Bodyguard Appointed Security Advisor by Mombasa Governor
