KNCHR says Elgeyo Marakwet chopper crash should serve as catalyst in achieving peace in West Pokot » Capital News
NAIROBI, Kenya, Apr 19- The Kenya National Commission of Human Rights (KNCHR) says the sacrifice made by late Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Francis Ogolla and nine other soldiers should serve as a catalyst to achieving peace in the volatile West Pokot region.
In a statement Friday, the human rights body Chairperson Roseline Odede stated that the legacy left by Ogolla and other military officers should inspire continue efforts towards peacebuilding and reconciliation.
“General Francis Omondi Ogolla and his senior Military Officers were on a crucial mission to promote peace in the volatile larger North Rift region of Kenya. Their dedication to this mission, even at the cost of their lives, reflects their unwavering commitment to the well-being of the region and its people,” read the statement.
The body described him as a selfless leader who was determined and committed to protecting the country and upholding peace and security.
A memorial service to honor the late General Ogolla to be held next Friday, April 26, his family says.
The service for Ogolla, who perished alongside nine others following a chopper crash in Elgeyo Marakwet on Thursday, will take place at the Ulinzi Sports Complex, where his family says, Ogolla “found solace in his biweekly runs.”
The commemoration will come five days after his burial, which is slated to take place at his Mor, Alego, home in Siaya County on April 21.
Ogolla’s family disclosed Friday that the late Military Chief Ogolla left instructions in his will to be buried within 72 hours of his death.
Given the circumstances of his demise while in office, the state has taken over the coordination of the memorial event.
The bodies of General Ogolla and nine other military officers and service men were flown to Nairobi on Thursday night.
Kenya has started three days of mourning the death of its military chief General Francis Ogolla following a helicopter crash Thursday.
President William Ruto declared three of mourning the General and nine other Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) personnel who perished when their helicopter crashed and burst into flames in Elgeyo Marakwet.
President Ruto ordered the lowering of national, regional, and regimental flags to half-mast from Friday.
He described Gen Ogolla’s death as “a painful loss to me.”
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