By Peter Ochieng
A moment of silence prevailed during the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) recruits pass-out parade in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu county on Wednesday, as President William Ruto called on those present to stand in honour of Francis Ogolla and 9 of his juniors, who died in a KDF helicopter crash last month.
Until his demise on April 18, 2024 in Elgeyo Marakwet county, Ogolla was serving as the Chief Of Defence Forces (CDF).
“Today we are assembled with mixed emotions to this grand pass-out parade. We continue to mourn the recent tragic loss of our departed gallant soldiers including the late General Francis Ogolla. Let us stand for a moment of silence to honour them,” said the President.
The Head of State said Ogolla’s legacy will continue to inspire many, escpecially the new recruits as they joined their colleagues in protecting the country.
All the soldgeirs who died in the crash have since been in various parts of the country.
Ogolla was buried in Alego, Siaya county on April 21. He was buried 72 hours after his demise, minus a casket as per his will.
President William Ruto led the country in giving him a a befitting send-off. The colourful ceremony was completed with a 19-gun salute.
Ruto described General Ogolla as a consummate military officer, a passionate commander and a patriot of great humility and integrity.
“Many people do not understand the loss that we have incurred as a country. There are very few leaders who can fit in the categorisation and shoes of General Ogolla,” he said.
“He loved this country and wanted the best for Kenya and would stop at nothing to make sure that Kenya was safe,” he added.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua commended General Ogolla’s leadership capabilities, saying he made an impact in the military during his tenure of service.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi said the late CDF was not only an accomplished military leader, but also a diplomat.
“He used these skills to serve his country.”
General Charles Kahariri who was Ogolla’s deputy was sworn in on May 03, 2024 to succeed his former boss.