Kenya is in mourning following the tragic death of its military chief, Gen. Francis Ogolla, in a helicopter crash. President William Ruto announced the devastating news and declared three days of national mourning to honor the fallen general.
The helicopter, carrying a total of 11 individuals including Gen. Ogolla, crashed and caught fire in a remote area near the Uganda border. Regrettably, nine people lost their lives in the crash, with the circumstances leading to the incident still under investigation.
Gen. Ogolla, aged 61, was on a tour of Kenya's troubled western region, known for frequent attacks by local bandits. He assumed the role of Chief of Defense Forces in April last year following the retirement of Gen. Robert Kibochi.
Prior to his appointment, Gen. Ogolla faced political controversy when he was accused of being part of a delegation that allegedly sought to influence the outcome of the 2022 general election. Despite these allegations, President Ruto defended his choice, citing Gen. Ogolla's qualifications for the position.
With a distinguished military career spanning four decades, Gen. Ogolla was a graduate of prestigious institutions including École Militaire de Paris, the National Defence College of Kenya, Egerton University, and the University of Nairobi.
Gen. Ogolla leaves behind his wife Aileen, two children, and a grandson, as the nation mourns the loss of a dedicated military leader. The circumstances surrounding the helicopter crash remain unclear as investigations continue.
Kenya's military and political landscape have been deeply impacted by the untimely loss of Gen. Francis Ogolla, whose legacy will be remembered by many.
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