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The president has announced the death of general Francis Omondi Ogolla, Kenya’s military chief, who died after a helicopter crashed in the west of the country. The crash claimed the lives of the general and his colleagues who they were traveling with, and the police initially said that five officers were dead and the number of survivors was three.
In the news conference, President William Ruto says it’s a tragic moment. He had earlier in the day summoned an urgent meeting pertaining to members of the country’s security council.
The helicopter was seen coming down in Kenya’s rift valley and burst into flames, according to local media reports.
The president hereby announces three days of nationwide mourning in honor of the general and nine others. It has been announced that flags are to fly at half mast beginning Friday, April 19.
Ogolla was named the new chief in April 2023. This was after changes in the military. He took after General Robert Kibochi, who left after reaching the mandatory exit age of 62.
The CDF is the highest-ranking military officer in the Kenya defense forces and is the principal military advisor to the president of Kenya and the national security council. He led meetings and coordinated the efforts of the service commander, comprising the CDF, the commander of the Kenyan army and air force, the Kenyan navy, and the commandant of military intelligence.
General Ogolla was very dedicated to his mission, and as part of that mission, he said he would continue working closely with other security agencies within a broader multi-agency framework for the safety, security, and stability of Kenya and its people, as well as for sustainable economic development and prosperity.
He rose to the ranks, became a major general, and was appointed commander of the Kenya Air Force in July 2018, a post he served for three years. Other than that, he held various appointments in training, command, and staff, including deputy commander at Kenya’s air force, base commander at Laikipia air base, and commanding officer of the Tactical Fighter Wing.
Other positions he served were chief flying instructor at Kenya Air Force flying training school and operations desk officer at Kenya Air Force Headquarters. He also served in the former Yugoslavia as an observer and military information officer.
Ogolla was dedicated to his duty, serving his country and its people, and is now being recognized all over the country, even by Uhuru Kenyatta, the former president. Who says that the CDF was not only an accomplished military leader but also a devoted patriot who dedicated his life to serving and protecting his beloved country? And whose leadership, bravery, and unwavering commitment to duty have made a lasting impact on our armed forces and our nation as a whole.
Ig @mannu mwendwa.
