Uhuru Kenyatta, former President of Kenya, has mourned General Ogolla as a devoted patriot, who had committed his life to serving the country.
“The CDF was not only an accomplished military leader but also a devoted patriot who dedicated his life to serving and protecting our beloved country. His leadership, bravery, and unwavering commitment to duty have made a lasting impact on our armed forces and our nation as a whole,” wrote Kenyatta in a post on X.
General Ogolla served as the Vice CDF during Kenyatta’s tenure as President and as the Deputy Commander of the Kenya Air Force, and Commander of the Kenya Air Force.
“As the Head of State, I had the privilege of serving with General Ogolla as Deputy Commander of the Kenya Air Force, Commander of the Kenya Air Force, and finally as Vice Chief of Defence Forces. During this period of mourning, please accept my sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathies to the family, friends, and colleagues of the other officers of the ill-fated flight.”
“May the memories of these exceptional military officers, who had a profound influence on our nation, bring you comfort and strength in this difficult time,” he ended.
Tanzania President Samia Suluhu has also sent her condolences to her Kenyan counterpart and the people of Kenya.
Other leaders who condoled the family of CDF General Ogolla include African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki, Azimio Chief Raila Odinga, and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula.
“My wife Ida and I are deeply saddened and profoundly shocked by the passing of General. Francis Ogolla, the Chief of Defence Forces. We join the nation in mourning his loss. Gen Ogolla was a true patriot, a highly decorated soldier, and a consummate professional who served our country with unwavering dedication. Our hearts go out to his family, his colleagues in the KDF, and the entire nation as we grieve this immense loss,” said Odinga.
African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki, in his condolence message, said: “Our thoughts and prayers go to President William Ruto and the people of Kenya following a tragic helicopter accident that claimed the lives of military personnel including the Chief of the Kenyan Defence Forces, General Francis Omondi Ogolla. May their souls rest in peace.”
Speaker Wetang’ula wrote: “I stand with reverence together with the nation and our disciplined forces, grieving the tragic loss of Gen Francis. O. Ogolla, the Chief of the Defence Forces, whose untimely demise in a helicopter crash while on duty in Elgeyo Marakwet County weighs heavily upon our hearts. His unwavering commitment to duty remains unparalleled, leaving behind a legacy of distinguished service to the nation.”