- Colonel Paul Denge, Raila Odinga’s longtime pilot, described the late leader as brave and a personal role model, having flown him for over 20 years.
- Denge recalled a perilous 2022 flight in Uasin Gishu when the chopper was attacked by youth, praising Raila’s composure during the ordeal
- He said flying Raila was unlike any other leader, highlighting courage and steadiness that left a lasting impression on him personally
Didacus Malowa, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.
As Kenya continues to mourn the loss of one of its most influential leaders, Raila Odinga, heartfelt tributes have continued to pour in from those who knew him best.
Source: Youtube
Among them is Colonel Paul Denge, Raila’s longtime pilot, who shared personal memories of flying the opposition stalwart for at least over two decades.
Now retired, the veteran pilot describes the late former premier as “a brave man” and a personal role model.
How did Denge mourn Raila?
Colonel Denge, whose aviation career spans 45 years, spent nearly half that time transporting Raila to various functions across the country.
He said the veteran politician’s tragic passing in India while undergoing treatment was deeply personal.
Denge recalled that while he had flown numerous leaders, including the current and former presidents, none displayed the courage and composure he witnessed in Raila.
“I have been a pilot for the last 45 years and out of those 45 years, about 20 years, I’ve been flying Baba. The loss of Baba has been a great loss to me personally, I’m sure to the family and the whole of Kenya. I have flown so many leaders, including the current president, the former president and so on, but Baba happened to be a very courageous leader I’ve ever flown,” the pilot stated.
How does Denge remember Raila’s leadership?
Denge recounted that their journeys were not without danger, sharing a perilous journey during the 2022 General Election.
The pilot stated that it was one of the most reported incidents, describing it as the most harrowing experience.
In the April 2022 incident, the chopper that was ferrying the then Azimio la Umoja flagbearer was stoned by rowdy youth in Kebenes, Uasin Gishu county.
The incident occurred right after the funeral of Mzee Jackson Kibor at Samitui farm, destroying the chopper’s air shield.
The hired goons targeted the aircraft during the charged event, putting both the pilot and passengers at risk.
Denge remembered that during the episode, Raila showcased unwavering bravery and steady leadership.
“We have gone through a lot of challenges with him, but the only one I think the nation knows about is when in Iten, my helicopter was attacked by the thugs with Baba inside, and somehow we managed to go through. Out of the leaders who were with me and Baba at that time, it’s only Baba who told me that just be courageous, do this and that, and I will not comment about the rest,” he recalled.
Source: Twitter
Over the years, Denge developed a deep respect for Odinga, not just for his political work but for his personal character.
Although Denge has since retired from active flying, he continues to manage aircraft operations at Wilson Airport, remaining connected to the aviation industry.
“He’s been a role model to me in so many things, and he has been a big loss to me personally. I have now retired from flying. We thank God, because we are all heading the same direction, and we know one time we are going to meet Baba,” he said.
Pilot who flew Raila’s body from India speaks
Elsewhere, Captain Saviemaria Ondego, the pilot who flew Raila’s body from India to Kenya, described the mission as “not a normal flight.”
The experience weighed heavily on her, blending sorrow, respect, and a deep sense of duty.
At take-off, she struggled to speak over the intercom, pausing to compose herself before delivering a heartfelt message to passengers.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
