Ruto asks Kenyans to pray for survivors of chopper crash that killed CDF Ogolla
By Mary Ouko, April 20, 2024
President William Ruto has asked Kenyans to pray for survivors of the chopper crash that killed Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Francis Ogolla.
Speaking during Ogolla’s memorial service held at the Ulinzi Sports Complex stadium on Saturday, April 20, 2024, the Head of State expressed sadness over the incident that befell the military officials and asked Kenyans to join in prayers for the two survivors receiving treatment.
“It was a sad and tragic moment for us as a nation and for the KDF fraternity. In the hospital, as we speak, Lieutenant Colonel Kasaine Ole Kuruta and Corporal Frankford Karanja, for whom I will ask you to pray for their quick recovery, are in fair condition. We wish them well,” Ruto said.
“Over the course of my life in public service, I have had the privilege to meet, interact and work with many outstanding men and women whose achievements and visions represent the best of what Kenya has to offer.”
Ogolla who tragically lost his life alongside nine other military officials on Thursday, April 18, 2024, will be laid to rest tomorrow per his wishes.
The deceased were; Brigadier Swale Saidi, Colonel Duncan Keittany, Lieutenant Colonel David Sawe, Major George Benson Magondu (Pilot), Captain Sora Mohamed, Captain Hillary Litali, Senior Sergeant John Kinyua Mureithi, Sergeant Cliphonce Omondi, and Sergeant Rose Nyawira.
Speaking to the press in the evening, President William Ruto noted that the military chopper crashed at the Sindar area in Elgeyo Marakwet County at around 2:20 pm.
“The demise of General Ogolla is a painful loss to me, and certainly, the sorrow we all feel about his passing is shared by all the people of Kenya, and especially the KDF fraternity. A distinguished four-star general has fallen in the course of duty, and service to country,” the president said.
“In honour of the life and the distinguished military career of the fallen general, who lost his life not just while in office, but in active military duty, the nation will observe 3 days of mourning commencing on Friday, April 19, 2024,” he added.