President William Ruto has delivered the heartbreaking news of the untimely demise of Chief of Defence Forces Francis Ogolla in a helicopter crash. The somber announcement came during a press briefing held in the evening, where President Ruto revealed that the fatal accident occurred in the Sindar area of Elgeyo Marakwet County around 2:20 pm.
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Expressing profound sorrow, President Ruto stated, “Today, at 2:20 pm, our nation suffered a tragic air accident in Sindar area, Keben location, Tot division, in Elgeyo Marakwet County. I am deeply saddened to announce the passing on of General Francis Omondi Ogolla, the Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces.”
Further exacerbating the tragedy, President Ruto disclosed that the ill-fated helicopter was transporting a total of 11 military officers, with devastating consequences. Nine of these brave servicemen, including Chief of Defence Forces Ogolla, lost their lives in the crash, leaving only two survivors grappling with the aftermath of the disaster. Among the fallen heroes were distinguished individuals such as Brigadier Swale Saidi, Colonel Duncan Keittany, and Lieutenant Colonel David Sawe, whose contributions to the nation’s security will forever be remembered.
The loss of Chief of Defence Forces Ogolla and his fellow servicemen has sent shockwaves throughout the nation, casting a pall of grief over Kenya’s military community and beyond. President Ruto extended his deepest condolences to the families of the deceased, acknowledging the profound sorrow engulfing the nation in the wake of this tragedy. Additionally, he offered prayers and wishes for the swift recovery of the two injured soldiers currently receiving medical treatment.
As the nation mourns the loss of these esteemed individuals, their legacy of service and sacrifice will endure as a testament to their unwavering dedication to Kenya and its people. The memory of Chief of Defence Forces Ogolla and his fallen comrades will remain etched in the annals of the nation’s history, inspiring future generations to honor their memory and uphold the values they so valiantly defended.
