Prominent Leaders Pour in their Condolences for the Late Francis Ogolla and Fallen Military Officers
Written by moradio on 19 April 2024
NAIROBI, Kenya, April 19 – Leaders from various political backgrounds have conveyed their sympathies to the family of the late Chief of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), General Francis Omondi Ogolla, as well as to the families of nine other senior military officers who lost their lives.
President William Ruto acknowledged General Ogolla’s passing, honoring him as a distinguished four-star General. Both national and international figures have joined in expressing their heartfelt condolences to General Ogolla’s family.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua remembered General Ogolla as a remarkable patriot who dedicated himself to safeguarding the nation.
“General Ogolla was a very vibrant, pleasant and joyous person, with a distinct and admirable demeanour. He served our Nation with sheer determination and unparalleled distinction,” he said.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta lamented General Ogolla’s demise, recognizing him not only as a skilled military leader but also as a devoted patriot who served and protected Kenya tirelessly.
“His leadership, bravery, and unwavering commitment to duty have made a lasting impact on our armed forces and our nation as a whole. As the Head of State, I had the privilege of serving with General Ogolla as Deputy Commander of the Kenya Air Force, Commander of the Kenya Air Force, and finally as Vice Chief of Defence Forces.” Stated Uhuru.
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu led global leaders in mourning General Ogolla’s passing, extending her condolences to President Ruto and the Kenyan people.
“Nimepokea kwa masikitiko makubwa taarifa ya kifo cha Mkuu wa Majeshi ya Ulinzi ya Jamhuri ya Kenya, Jenerali Francis Omondi Ogolla na wanajeshi wengine tisa katika ajali ya helikopta iliyotokea leo katika Kaunti ya Elgeyo-Marakwet,” she wrote.
The United States Ambassador to Kenya, Meg Whitman, praised General Ogolla’s integrity and commitment, emphasizing his role in strengthening the relationship between Kenya and the United States.
“I had the honour of working with General Ogolla and had great respect for his integrity and dedication to the Kenyan people. He was a great friend of the United States and helped advance the U.S.-Kenya partnership,” Whitman wrote.
UK Commissioner to Kenya Neil Wigan offered his condolences to the families of the deceased military personnel, highlighting General Ogolla’s close ties with the UK and his valued friendship.
Sending our deepest condolences to the loved ones of all those who lost their lives in today’s military helicopter crash. CDF General Francis Ogolla was a close friend of the UK and will be deeply missed,” Wigan wrote.
Other Kenyan leaders, including ICT Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owallo and Members of Parliament Otiende Amollo and Babu Owino, also expressed their sorrow over General Ogolla’s passing.
