President Ruto: General Ogolla’s death is painful loss to me

President William Ruto has revealed how painful the death of Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Francis Ogolla is to him personally.

General Ogolla was Ruto’s first appointed CDF, but their work relationship was cut short following a helicopter accident that claimed the life of the 61-year-old soldier.

Ruto said that the crash robbed Kenya of an accomplished soldier, and his death, the Head of State admitted, is painful because he admired General Ogolla.

“It is most unfortunate that the helicopter crash has robbed this nation of fine and dedicated patriots whose ability, professionalism, and selfless dedication were self-evident. As a result, the Kenya Defence Forces has lost highly promising officers who still had so much to contribute to the strength, security and glory of our country, together with their leader and commander, General Francis Ogolla. 

“I know that I have already said, and I want to say again, that his death is a painful loss to me personally. This is a man I had come to admire very much, one of the best appointments I have made as President,” Ruto said during the CDF’s memorial service at Ulinzi Sports Complex in Lang’ata.

Lesson’s from Ogolla’s life

The president described the former Laikia Airbase boss as a veteran commander, airman, and soldier who fell in the course of duty. However, after his death, Ruto said there are lessons to be learned from Ogolla’s life.

“There is something profound that the General’s life and work teach us all, especially those of us called upon to serve the people of Kenya in various capacities.

“Every day, he demonstrated in his work that his priority was our nation and its people, that he was privileged to have the opportunity to serve and was therefore obligated to do his very best,” he added.

The president also praised the family for showing strength during this trying moment.

“We do not get many chances to do our best. Neither do we know the day nor the hour of our passing. We have one lifetime and one nation to serve, and we must always give our very best. To the General’s family: You are a reflection of the General’s strength, grace, and serenity, even in the most difficult of times.

“You have comforted us when we should be comforting you and encouraged us when we should be encouraging you. In each of you, we glimpse General Ogolla’s best qualities and know that his spirit lives even though physically he is no longer with us,” Ruto concluded.

General Ogolla will be buried on Sunday, April 21, 2024, at his Ng’iya home in Siaya County.