President Ruto visits Ogolla’s family

President William Ruto has arrived at the home of the late Chief of Defence Forces Francis Ogolla to condole with the family ahead of his burial on Sunday.

The Head of State was accompanied by his Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Cabinet Secretaries led by Defence CS Aden Duale and top military officials.

Earlier, Raila Odinga led Azimio leaders in condoling the wife of the late Chief of Defence Forces, Francis Ogolla, Aileen, at his Nairobi home.

Odinga was accompanied by among others Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and his Narc Kenya counterpart Martha Karua, who later read Azimio’s condolence message to the press.

In their tribute to General Ogolla, the coalition said the country had lost a leader with deep knowledge and steady leadership in military affairs.

It added that the demise of such a man is not only Kenya’s but also international Community’s loss.

However, Karua called on the government to move with speed and un-earth the true cause of the chopper crash that led to the deaths of the gallant soldiers.

The late Ogolla is set to be buried on Sunday in Siaya according to his wishes.

Joel Rabuku Ogolla, a member of the family revealed that the late Ogolla had a left a will that outlined that he be buried within 72 hours of his death.

“In honor of his humble nature, General Ogolla specified that his burial occur within 72 hours of his passing, echoing the profound truth that from dust we came and to dust we shall return,” Rabuku Ogolla said

“His family has dutifully chosen Sunday, April 21st, 2024 for his final farewell, to be held at his cherished home in Mor, Alego, Siaya County,” he added.

The burial will be preceded by a memorial service at his local church in Nduru.

Additionally, the family said that a memorial service will be held next Friday in honour of the fallen Soldier at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Langata, where he found solace in his biweekly runs.

“Let us gather, to celebrate the life of a General who dedicated his life to service, love, generosity and devotion that touched us all deeply.”