Summary:
- In a live address to the nation from State House, Nairobi, President Ruto expressed deep sorrow over the loss, stating, “Today at 2:20 pm, our nation suffered a tragic air accident at Sindar area, Kaben location, Tot division, in Elgeyo Marakwet County. I am deeply saddened to announce the passing of General Francis Omondi Ogolla, the Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces.”
KENYA: Kenya’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Francis Ogolla, has tragically passed away, as confirmed by President William Ruto.
The unfortunate incident occurred on Thursday afternoon when a Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) helicopter crashed in Sindar, Elgeyo-Marakwet County.
In a live address to the nation from State House, Nairobi, President Ruto expressed deep sorrow over the loss, stating, “Today at 2:20 pm, our nation suffered a tragic air accident at Sindar area, Kaben location, Tot division, in Elgeyo Marakwet County. I am deeply saddened to announce the passing of General Francis Omondi Ogolla, the Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces.”
Accompanying General Ogolla in the crash were 11 other military personnel, with nine losing their lives and two surviving. Among the officers who perished alongside General Ogolla were Brigadier Swale Saidi, Colonel Duncan Keittany, Lieutenant Colonel David Sawe, Major George Benson Magondu, Captain Sora Mohamed, Captain Hillary Litali, Senior Sergeant John Kinyua Mureithi, Sergeant Cliphonce Omondi, and Sergeant Rose Nyawira.
President Ruto declared three days of national mourning, commencing Friday, April 19, to honor the memory of General Ogolla and the other fallen officers.
Reflecting on the loss, the 4th President of the Republic of Kenya, H.E. Uhuru Muigai Kenyatta, emphasized General Francis’ immense contributions to the nation. Kenyatta praised General Ogolla as not just an accomplished military leader but also a dedicated patriot who served the country with unwavering commitment.
“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,” Kenyatta remarked.
He extended his heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased officers, urging them to find solace in the memories of their loved ones.
“May the memories of these exceptional military officers, who had a profound influence on our nation, bring you comfort and strength in this difficult time,” Kenyatta concluded.
