Leaders across the political divide have sent their messages of condolences to the family of the late Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), General Francis Omondi Ogolla and the families of nine other senior military officers following their demise.
The ten passed on Thursday afternoon in a chopper crash at Sindar area, Elgeyo Marakwet.
The Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua mourned General Ogolla as a great patriot who gave his best in protecting the country.
He said: “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.”
In a statement, the former President Uhuru Kenyatta mourned the General saying, the CDF was not only an accomplished military leader, but also a devoted patriot who dedicated his life to serving and protecting our beloved country.
“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.
The Senate Speaker Amason Kingi mourned the late Ogolla as a military leader of great distinction.
“On my own behalf and that of the Senate of the Republic of Kenya, I convey my heartfelt condolences to his family and to the people of Kenya for the loss of a loved one and a military leader of great distinction.” Stated Ogolla.
Adding that: “Similarly, I deeply condole with the families of the other nine military officers, who were with the General in the ill-fated helicopter flight, as he supervised the ongoing Operation Maliza Uhalifu in North Rift Region.”
He said as CDF, General Francis Omondi Ogolla, carried on his star-studded shoulders the huge responsibility of ensuring the country remained safe and secure from external aggression and all other forms of security threats.
On his part, the Speaker of the National Assembly mourned General Ogolla as a an officer who’s unwavering commitment to duty remains unparalleled, leaving behind a legacy of distinguished service to the nation.
