A terrible day for Kenya! Raila Odinga mourns the loss of General Francis Ogolla
Raila Odinga, the official leader of the opposition, has expressed deep sadness at the tragic death of General Francis Omondi Ogolla, the Chief of Defence Forces, who lost his life in a helicopter crash.
General Ogolla, along with nine other military personnel, was involved in a devastating helicopter crash in the Sindar area, Kaben Location in Elgeyo Marakwet, which sent shockwaves across the country.
In a heartfelt tribute to General Ogolla, Raila Odinga said: “A terrible day for Kenya: My wife Ida and I are deeply saddened and shocked by the death of General Francis Ogolla, the Chief of Defence Forces.”
Adding, “We join the nation in mourning his loss. General Ogolla was a true patriot, a highly decorated soldier and a consummate professional who served our country with unwavering dedication.”
Expressing solidarity with the grieving family, Raila added: “Our hearts go out to his family, his colleagues in the KDF and the entire nation as we mourn this immense loss. We also extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the KDF team that accompanied General Ogolla. We know that at this moment, words will not be enough to comfort your tremendous grief. We pray that the Lord will comfort you. May the souls of all those who have passed on find eternal peace.”
Moses Wetangula, Speaker of the National Assembly, also joined the nation in mourning the tragic loss of CDF Ogolla.
In a solemn tribute, Speaker Wetangula expressed deep sorrow at the untimely demise of General Ogolla and his fellow officers whose selfless service to the nation will be remembered with reverence.
“I stand with the nation and our disciplined armed forces in mourning the tragic loss of the Chief of Defence Forces, General Francis .O. Ogolla, whose untimely demise in a helicopter crash while on duty in Elgeiyo Marakwet District weighs heavily on our hearts,” said Speaker Wetangula.
In this moment of grief, Speaker Wetangula extended his deepest condolences to the bereaved families of the fallen officers and acknowledged their immense sacrifice and commitment to the nation. He paid tribute to each of the officers by name, recognising their unwavering commitment to serving their country.
“May the bereaved find solace in knowing that he died while steadfastly serving his country with honour and defending the cause of peace.His unwavering commitment to duty remains unparalleled and leaves behind a legacy of outstanding service to the nation,” said Speaker Wetangula.
In concluding his tribute, Speaker Wetangula wished the survivors of the tragic accident a speedy recovery and called for prayers for the eternal peace of the departed souls.