President William Ruto has expressed his condolences to the family of the late Chief of the Defence Forces General Francis Ogolla at their home in Nairobi.
General Ogolla passed away while on duty yesterday, following the crash of a Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) helicopter in Sindar, Elgeyo-Marakwet County.
In his message of condolence, the President praised General Ogolla as a dedicated, professional, and visionary leader who served his nation with passion.
He mentioned that the loss of General Ogolla was not only a huge loss to the family, but also to the military and the country.
President Ruto encouraged the family to take comfort in knowing that General Ogolla had made Kenya proud.
“Mama Aileen and your children, I want you to know that your husband, the father of your children, was a great Kenyan, a professional soldier, and a military officer who made a difference in our republic,” he said.
The President highlighted that General Ogolla had made a significant impact during his tenure as the Chief of the Defence Forces.
He mentioned that the late CDF had collaborated with other security agencies to ensure the safety of the nation.
President Ruto stated that under his leadership, there were minimal terrorist incidents in the country due to his intelligence and effective leadership.
“If there is one appointment that I made and am very proud of, it is that of General Ogolla. He was a professional and a leader,” he said. “We have lost a man who, I believe, would have transformed our military.”
He explained that General Ogolla had committed to securing funds and personally overseeing the reconstruction of schools in the troubled Kerio Valley.
President Ruto further elaborated that he died on duty while responding to the needs of women and children who were victimized by bandits and cattle rustlers.
“That is how much General Ogolla believed in his country,” he stated.
He urged Kenyans to follow the example of General Ogolla, saying, “In his humility, he has lessons for all of us.”
First Lady Rachel Ruto emphasized that the passing of General Ogolla was a significant loss to the nation, noting that he dedicated his time to serving the country.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua described General Ogolla as a humorous individual with high hopes for the country and a strong focus on security.
“He was a devoted general and a patriot, a man who cherished his country,” he affirmed.
Siaya Governor James Orengo characterized General Ogolla as a modest person who enjoyed interacting with people regardless of his military rank.
He will be laid to rest on Sunday at his home in Alego, Siaya County.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of President of the Republic of Kenya.