The National Assembly has eulogized the late chief of defence forces general Francis Omondi Ogolla and nine service members who died in a helicopter crash in Elgeyo Marakwet County on Thursday, April 18th.
The tribute by the lawmakers followed a communication from the Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula informing the House of the tragedy.
Speaker Wetang’ula also led the House in observing a moment of silence in honour of the fallen soldiers.
“I wish to formally report to the House the demise of the late general, Francis Omondi Ogolla together with Brigadier Swale Saidi, Col. Duncan Keittany, Lt. Col. David Sawe, Maj. George Benson Magondu, Capt. Sora Mohamed, Capt. Hillary Litali, Senior Sgt. John Kinyua Mureithi, Sgt. Cliphonce Omondi and Sgt. Rose Nyawira. They met their death on Thursday, 18th April 2024 following a tragic helicopter crash in Elgeyo Marakwet County,” a section of the Communication read.
Members paid accolades to the departed Ogolla for his outstanding leadership throughout his military service, as well as to the other fallen soldiers for their exceptional service to the country.
“He exuded a rare dedication to duty, that even at the helm of his career, he died serving this country. During 2023’s Jamhuri Day celebrations, in recognition of his dedication to duty and Country, the president conferred on him the Order of the Elder of the Golden Heart presidential award, underscoring his exceptional contribution to this Country,” said Speaker Wetang’ula.
Wetang’ula’s sentiments were echoed by Baringo North MP Joseph Makilap who remembered Ogolla as “a brilliant intelligent man,” an observation supported by the Eldama Ravine MP Musa Sirma.
“Ogolla was a great man and a great leader. The young people who we have lost were doing a great service to Kenyans,” Sirma said.
Sirma further called on the government to remain resolute in its commitment to wipe out banditry, in honour of the departed military officers.
Other members remembered general Ogolla for his humility, terming him as a great role model.
“It is sad that we mourn our soldiers who lost their lives in their line of duty. I want to encourage our soldiers. The life of CDF Ogolla stands as a demonstration of faith and humility,” said Malava MP Malulu Ijendi.
Leader of the Minority Party, Opiyo Wandayi called for thorough investigations on the accident.
Several lawmakers led by Kilgoris lawmaker Julius Sunkuli reiterated his position, calling for a probe into the status of the country’s military equipment and infrastructure.
“I would like to call on the Committee on Defence to look into the equipment used by our military officials,” urged Hon. Sunkuli.
Legislators further highlighted the need to address the root cause of insecurity in the North Rift region, where the helicopter crash occurred.
Speaker Moses Wetang’ula closed the session with a plea to leaders from the restive region.
“Members of this House and the leaders of West Pokot, Samburu, Baringo, Turkana please talk peace. You are the leaders. Those young people engaged in banditry are our children. Give them alternatives. The leadership must start from this House. We need to change the situation,” he urged.
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