Raila Odinga’s longtime personal driver, Eric Ominde, has opened up about the challenges and sacrifices that came with serving one of Kenya’s most prominent political figures, revealing how the demanding nature of his job often kept him away from family milestones.
Speaking in an interview with a local media outlet on Sunday, October 26, 2025, Ominde recounted his years of dedicated service to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, a journey that began during Raila’s tenure as Minister for Roads.
“Mimi, watoto wangu wote wamezaliwa kama mimi siko nyumbani; mimi huwa nawakuta kwa nyumba,” Ominde said, recalling that he missed the births of all his children because of work commitments.
A Journey Built on Trust and Dedication
Ominde revealed that his role began after Raila personally asked him to join his convoy, marking the start of a professional and deeply personal bond that would last decades.
“He told me, ‘I want you to stay with me,’ and from there he started teaching me the work,” he shared. “He relied on me a lot because we travelled everywhere together. We agreed that we would stand by each other and keep going.”
Their years on the road were not without danger. Ominde described enduring tear gas, water cannons, and violent confrontations during protests and political unrest. Despite the risks, he remained steadfast beside his boss.
“We started our journey together as driver and leader. I would sneak him through the city, and even when I was caught in tear gas, he would tell me, ‘Do not be afraid,’” Ominde said. “There were times when everything felt out of control, but Raila never showed fear. Seeing his courage gave me courage too.”
Inside Kenya’s Electrifying Campaigns
Ominde recalled driving Raila to countless rallies, including historic gatherings such as those at Uhuru Park, where the atmosphere was charged with political energy and emotion.
“I drove him from his home in Karen to Uhuru Park. We did what needed to be done and finished successfully,” he said, reflecting on the intensity of Kenya’s campaign seasons.
A Bond Beyond Work
Beyond the long hours and dangerous assignments, Ominde remembered Raila as a humble and compassionate leader who valued loyalty and treated his staff like family.
“One day, he looked back and said, ‘This young man, I have come a long way with him.’ He told his lawyer that I was part of his journey, and I was called back again. That moment will stay with me forever,” Ominde said.
He added that Raila’s generosity extended beyond him to his children, saying the Odinga family treated them with kindness and respect.
“It was not just me; even my children benefited from his generosity. He treated us like family,” he said.
Ominde’s heartfelt recollection paints a vivid portrait of loyalty, resilience, and the unseen sacrifices behind one of Kenya’s most storied political careers a bond forged through shared struggles, faith, and unwavering dedication.
