Winnie Odinga, daughter of Raila Odinga, has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late George Oduor, describing him as a brother, friend, and a quiet hero who stood by their family for nearly three decades.
Oduor, who passed away on April 2, served as a long-time aide to the Odinga family. Winnie revealed that his bond with their family began in 1995, forming an unbreakable connection that went beyond duty or friendship.
In her touching eulogy, Winnie shared how Oduor had become part of their household, endearingly nicknamed “Georgi Porji” by her late brother Fidel during their high school years. To the Odingas, Oduor wasn’t just an aide—he was family.
“I remember Mama saying that there were too many Georges and Davids around us, so everyone else got nicknames, but you? You got to keep your name, George, because you were the original and had the longest tenure,” she recalled with affection.
Winnie described Oduor as a “gentle giant,” whose patience, kindness, and readiness to help made him an irreplaceable part of their lives. From teaching her football to helping with everyday challenges, Oduor was a constant source of guidance and strength.
Professionally, the two shared a dynamic working relationship. “I was the thinker and you were the action,” Winnie remarked, praising Oduor’s ability to quietly get things done. His favourite phrase, “These people don’t understand how far we’ve come on this journey,” underscored his deep commitment to the Odinga legacy and their shared goals.
Winnie recalled one memory where Oduor taught her to operate a gadget, making her feel like a spy in training. It was small moments like these that showed his playful yet purposeful character.
“If there were a medal for loyalty and honour, you’d have a whole wall of them,” she said.
As she bid farewell, Winnie found comfort in Oduor’s legacy of selflessness and quiet strength. “Until we meet again, Owadwa. Nind gi kwe (I will see you again),” she concluded.
