Kenya: Timelines of KDF Boss General Francis Ogolla’s Death [FULL STATEMENT]

Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Kenyans.co.ke
Published on 2024-04-18 18:02:01

President William Ruto made a solemn announcement on the evening of Thursday, April 18, at 8:13 PM, regarding the tragic death of Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Francis Ogola. The nation was plunged into mourning following a devastating air accident that occurred at Sindar area, Kaben location, Tot division, in Elgeyo Marakwet County at 2:20 PM the same day. President Ruto expressed deep sadness as he officially confirmed the passing of General Francis Omondi Ogolla, the esteemed Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces.

Tragically, General Ogolla was not alone in the helicopter crash. Alongside him were eleven other brave military personnel, with nine succumbing to the injuries sustained while two survived the ordeal. The fallen soldiers who lost their lives in the crash were identified as Brigadier Swale Saidi, Colonel Duncan Keittany, Lieutenant Colonel David Sawe, Major George Benson Magondu, Captain Sora Mohamed, Captain Hillary Litali, Senior Sergeant John Kinyua Mureithi, Sergeant Cliphonce Omondi, and Sergeant Rose Nyawira.

The ill-fated journey of the CDF commenced with a mission to visit troops deployed in the North Rift as part of Operation Maliza Uhalifu. Additionally, General Ogolla was set to inspect ongoing school renovation works at several schools in the region, including Chesitet Primary School, Cheptulel Boys High School, Chepoton Primary School, Ksaa Primary School, and Sablimoi Primary School.

During his tour, the CDF had engaged with a multi-agency security team in Baringo County before proceeding to the Kainuk Forward Operating Base in Turkana County to commend troops for their operational successes. Subsequently, he ventured to Chesegon, West Pokot County, where he officiated the rehabilitation of Cheptulel Boys High School, and later headed to the Recruits Training School in Uasin Gishu County for a scheduled inspection. Tragically, the aircraft crashed shortly after take-off, cutting short the promising journey of these distinguished military personnel.

President Ruto expressed profound sorrow at the loss of General Ogolla, recognizing him as one of the nation’s bravest generals, officers, and servicemen who had dedicated his life to serving the country. He extended heartfelt condolences to the families of all the deceased soldiers and declared a three-day period of national mourning, beginning on April 19, 2024, to honor their memory.

During this period of mourning, the Kenyan flag, the Kenya Defence Forces Flag, and the flag of the Eastern Africa Community would fly at half-mast in the Republic of Kenya and Kenyan missions worldwide. Additionally, the Kenya Air Force initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the tragic air crash. President Ruto called for unity and strength among the grieving families and wished a speedy recovery to the two injured soldiers. The entire nation stood in solidarity as they bid farewell to their fallen heroes, reflecting on their selfless service and sacrifice for the country.

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