By Isaac Blessings
Former Prime Minister and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Political party leader Raila Odinga, popularly known as ‘Baba’ , is the most influential opposition leader in Kenya. Having been involved in the clamour for multi-party politics in the country, Raila is loved and loathed in almost equal measure.
In this article, WoK brings you all you need to know about Raila Odinga’s security detail as of 2022.
Raila Odinga
Raila Odinga is the son of Kenya’s first Vice President Jaramogi Oginga Odinga. The 78 year old has been actively involved in politics since 1992 when he was first elected as Member of Parliament representing Langata constituency. Since then, he has held different positions such as Minister for Energy and Minister of Roads, Public works and housing among others. The former Prime Minister is a favorite to succeed President Uhuru Kenyatta in the forthcoming general election slated for 9 August 2022. Despite being the official opposition leader, Raila Odinga is a close ally of President Uhuru Kenyatta and it is evident that he is enjoying the benefits that come with it.
Also Read: Top Ten Most Influential Opposition Leaders In Africa 2021
Security
Since the ‘handshake’ between the ODM leader and the President in 2018, Raila has been touted as the heir apparent. Every meeting that he attends, paints the picture of a man who is surrounded with state power and influence. According to the government of Kenya, Raila is said to have at least 12 bodyguards provided by the state. The bodyguards include 10 GSU officers, two regular police officers and two drivers drawn from the prisons department. Elite officers from the General Service Unit (GSU) also provide 24 hours security for his listed homes like Karen and Bondo among others. The opposition leader is entitled to armed security provided on request, diplomatic passports, office and office equipment and access to VIP lounges in all airports in the country.
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He is also provided with two saloon cars with an engine capacity that doesn’t exceed 2,000cc which is replaced once after every four years. Other benefits include three drivers, one personal assistant, two secretaries, two housekeepers, two senior support staff, two gardeners, two cooks and two cleaners. The law also states that when the Former Prime Minister travels locally and internationally, security agencies are involved in his itinerary, with Kenyan envoys receiving him at the capital city of the foreign country he visits.
During his tenure as the prime minister of Kenya from 2007 to 2013, Raila enjoyed protection of 57 police officers guarding him and his properties spread across the country.
Apart from the state security and personal bodyguards, Raila also enjoys diplomatic security drawn from the African Union further enhancing his security.
