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In a devastating blow that has sent ripples through the nation, Kenya’s top military chief commander, General Francis Omondi Ogolla, and nine others died in a helicopter crash, prompting an immediate government investigation.
The military helicopter, carrying twelve passengers, tragically plummeted to the earth shortly after lifting off in Elgeyo Marakwet County, northwestern Kenya, on Thursday, April 18, leaving the country in mourning and the military in shock.
“In honour of the life and the distinguished military career of the fallen General who lost his life not just while in office but in active military duty, the nation will observe a period of three days of mourning commencing on April 19.” President William Ruto.
“Today, at 2:20 pm, our nation suffered a tragic air accident in Sindar area, Keben location, Tot division, in Elgeyo Marakwet County. I am deeply saddened to announce the passing on of General Francis Omondi Ogolla, the Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces,” President William Ruto announced Thursday night.
The fallen, including the esteemed Gen Ogolla, were honored with their remains solemnly flown to Nairobi, while the two surviving occupants are now battling for their lives in hospital.
President Ruto declared three days of national mourning, honoring the “gallant officer” who died “in the line of duty.”
“In honour of the life and the distinguished military career of the fallen General who lost his life not just while in office but in active military duty, the nation will observe a period of three days of mourning commencing on April 19,” the President added.
Appointed just last year as Kenya’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Ogolla was remembered by President Ruto as a “valiant general,” a sentinel of peace and security for the Kenyan people.
His unexpected death marks the first time a Kenyan military chief has fallen while in service and comes while serving under President Ruto, who told the media last year that he appointed him as the army chief “against the advice of many people” because Gen Ogolla was among a group who tried to take away his victory.
A career decorated with distinction, Gen Ogolla joined the Kenya Defence Forces in 1984, ascending the ranks and shaping a legacy of leadership. Known for his expertise in fighter pilot tactics, counter-terrorism, and accident investigation, he became the Air Force commander in 2018 and was revered for his strategic acumen.
Others who died in the crash are Brig. Swale Saidi, Col. Duncan Keittany, and seven other military personnel were on a critical mission in the North Rift region—a hotbed of unrest and banditry.
Tributes continue to pour in, including from Moussa Faki Mahamat of the African Union Commission, extending condolences.
Opposition leader Raila Odinga lamented about the terrible day for Kenya.
“My wife Ida and I are deeply saddened and profoundly shocked by the passing of General. Francis Ogolla, the Chief of Defence Forces. We join the nation in mourning his loss,” Odinga said. “Gen. Ogolla was a true patriot, a highly decorated soldier, and a consummate professional who served our country with unwavering dedication.Our hearts go out to his family, his colleagues in the KDF, and the entire nation as we grieve this immense loss.”
Gen Ogolla will be laid to rest on Sunday in his ancestral Siaya County.
“In honor of his humble nature, General Ogolla specified that his burial occur within 72 hours of his passing, echoing the profound truth that from dust we came and to dust we shall return,” Rabuku Ogolla, the family’s spokesperson, said in a statement to newsrooms Friday. “His family has dutifully chosen Sunday, April 21, 2024, for his final farewell, to be held at his cherished home in Mor, Alego, Siaya County,” he added. The burial will be preceded by a memorial service at his local church in Nduru.
Editor’s Note: We’ll continue to update this story and more details surrounding Gen. Ogolla’s death come to light.
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