Kenya’s military chief, Francis Ogolla, tragically perished in a helicopter crash in the western region of the country on Thursday, as announced by President William Ruto in a televised address.
The fatal incident occurred shortly after the helicopter’s take-off on Thursday afternoon local time, claiming the lives of Ogolla and nine other military personnel, with two survivors, Ruto disclosed.
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I am deeply saddened to announce the passing of General Francis Omondi Ogolla, the Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces,” expressed Ruto.
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A team of investigators has been dispatched to the crash site in Elgeyo Marakwet County to ascertain the cause of the accident, Ruto further stated.
Ogolla had departed from Nairobi on Thursday to visit troops in the North Rift region and inspect ongoing school renovations, according to the president.
Following the crash, Ruto swiftly convened an urgent meeting of the National Security Council in Nairobi, as confirmed by presidential spokesperson Hussein Mohamed.
Ruto reflected on the tragic loss, remarking, “As the Commander in Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces, it is a tragic moment for the Kenya Defence Forces fraternity and 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,” he added.
Kenya will observe three days of National mourning starting from Friday, Ruto announced.
According to the state broadcaster Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC), Francis Ogolla is the first Kenyan military chief to die in active service. Ogolla joined the Kenya Defence Forces in 1984, rising to the rank of 2nd Lieutenant in 1985 before being assigned to the Kenya Air Force, as per the Ministry of Defence website.
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