His Excellency Dr. William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces today led the military fraternity, Kenyans and members of the Diplomatic Corps in mourning the fallen Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Francis Ogolla.
During the State memorial service held at the iconic Ulinzi Sports Complex -Langata (USC-L). The casket carrying the body of the CDF was brought to the Complex ontop of a gun carrier from Mashujaa Funeral Home. The military fraternity paid their respects during the lap of honour. Inline with the Defence Forces standing Instructions No.5 of 2020 which among other leadees defines the military honours during the Interment of a General, the CDF was accorded a 19-gun salute in his honour.
The President mourned General Ogolla as one of the finest military personnel who was highly patriotic and who served his motherland with steadfast dedication.
He applauded Gen Ogolla who lost his life in a helicopter crash in Elgeyo Marakwet county last Thursday after a successful working tour. The CDF had visited the operation area to inspect the progress of construction and rehabilitation works in five schools in the North Rift operation area, which had been vandalized by bandits and cattle rustlers.
The President said General Ogolla stood as one of the finest public servants whose illustrious legacy shall continue to inspire future generations.
“Over the course of my life in public service, I’ve had the privilege to meet, interact and work with many outstanding men and women whose achievements and visions present the best the country has to offer,” said the Head of State.
“Gen Ogolla was in a very special class, he presented what Kenya has to offer. We are here to bid goodbye to a very consummate military officer who was passionate, accomplished commander who even in his death continues to give lessons on humility,” the President added.
H.E Dr. Ruto wished the two survivors of the air crash a speedy recovery and asked Kenyans to pray for them saying they are in fair condition.
The Deputy President Hon. Rigathi Gachagua mourned the General as a humorous person who always made everyone comfortable around him and shared his insights owing to his rich experience in military service.
Joel Ogolla, the son of the fallen General condoled with his father as a man who had great zeal in his service to the country and his wish was to ensure the entire country was peaceful and secure.
“My father wanted to ensure that the threats posed by al-shabaab are fully neutralized but now lies before us in death. I urge the KDF soldiers to multiply efforts in fight against terrorism and banditry since our ultimate destination is the one my father has made,” he said.
Gen. Ogolla was enlisted into the military in 1984 and commissioned in 1985.
During his time in the military he served in various capacities including as the Commanding Officer Laikipia Air Base, Base Commander Laikipia Air Base, Kenya Air Force Commander, Vice Chief of Defence Forces and ultimately the as CDF in April 2023.
The late General leaves behind his wife Aileen, Joel and his daughter Lorna.
Also present was the Prime Cabinet Secretary and CS for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Hon. Musalia Mudavadi, Senate Speaker Hon. Amason Kingi, Defence CS Hon. Aden Duale, Chief Justice Hon. Martha Koome, Vice Chief of Defence Forces Lieutenant General Charles Kahariri, Service Commanders, former Prime Minister Hon. Raila Odinga among other senior government and military officers.
General Ogolla will be laid to rest at his home in Siaya County on Sunday, 21st April 2024.
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