From Guarding Raila in Prison to Serving as MP: The Remarkable Journey of Rashid Juma Bedzimba
KISAUNI, Kenya — The story of Kisauni Member of Parliament Rashid Juma Bedzimba is one that mirrors Kenya’s transformative political journey — from the era of oppression and political detention to the age of democracy and leadership born of resilience.
Before becoming a legislator, Bedzimba served as a General Service Unit (GSU) officer in the 1980s, a period defined by political crackdowns under the KANU regime. Among the men he was assigned to guard was none other than Raila Amollo Odinga, who at the time was imprisoned for his political activism and calls for multi-party democracy.
In a twist of fate, Bedzimba’s brief encounter with Raila during those turbulent years would go on to shape his life profoundly. Speaking in earlier interviews, the MP revealed that witnessing Raila’s strength, composure, and unwavering faith in justice while in detention changed his perception of leadership forever.
“I guarded Raila when he was a detainee, and though we were in different worlds — me in uniform, him behind bars — I saw a man who believed in Kenya’s freedom more than his own comfort. That inspired me deeply,” Bedzimba once recalled.
After leaving the forces, Bedzimba immersed himself in community service in Mombasa, working with youth and women groups before venturing into politics. His passion for social empowerment and grassroots development quickly won him admiration across Kisauni Constituency.
In 2013, Bedzimba was elected to Parliament on an ODM ticket — the same party founded by Raila Odinga, the man he once guarded behind prison walls. His rise from a state officer enforcing authority to a democratically elected leader underlines Kenya’s evolution from repression to reform.
Throughout his political career, Bedzimba has remained a loyal supporter of Raila Odinga and a strong advocate for social justice, equality, and empowerment. Following Raila’s recent passing, the MP paid an emotional tribute, describing him as the man who ignited his political conscience.
“Raila was not just a leader; he was a teacher of courage and conviction. From the prison cells where I guarded him to the political halls where I now serve, his spirit has been my guide,” Bedzimba said.
His story stands as a living testament to the transformative power of vision and forgiveness — and a reminder that Kenya’s struggle for democracy produced not just heroes, but generations of leaders inspired by them.
