Kenya’s military has suffered a tragic loss as General Francis Ogolla, the country’s Defence Chief has died in a helicopter crash in the western region. President William Ruto confirmed his death in a television address.
The crash, which claimed ten lives, leaving two survivors, occurred shortly after takeoff on Thursday afternoon. Ruto expressed deep sorrow over the death of General Ogolla and dispatched investigators to the crash site 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,” he said.
According to the president, Ogolla’s mission was to visit troops and inspect school renovations in the North Rift region of the country.
In response to the tragedy, Ruto convened an emergency meeting of the National Security Council.
“For me, as the Commander in Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces, it is a tragic moment for the Kenya Defence Forces fraternity and it is a most unfortunate day for the nation at large. Our motherland has lost one of her most valiant generals. We have also lost gallant officers, servicemen, and women,” Ruto said.
Kenya will observe three days of mourning starting Friday. Ogolla, who joined the military in 1984, is the first Kenyan military chief to die on active duty, according to Kenya Broadcasting Corporation. He joined the Kenya Defence Forces in 1984, becoming 2nd Lieutenant in 1985 before being posted to the Kenya Air Force.
