By Grace Gilo
The passing of General Francis Ogolla, the Chief of the Kenyan Defence Forces, has been officially announced by the President.
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“I’m deeply saddened to announce the passing on of General Francis Omondi Ogolla, the Chief of the Kenyan Defence Forces,” confirmed the president in a statement issued at State House on Thursday evening.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta expressed his condolences for the General’s death through his X account.
“The CDF was not only an accomplished military leader but also a devoted patriot who dedicated his life to serving and protecting our beloved country,” eulogized Uhuru Kenyatta.
The ex-president spoke of his honor in working alongside the General in different roles, including Deputy Commander of the Kenya Air Force, Commander of the Kenya Air Force, and Vice Chief of Defence Forces.
The Former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga also conveyed his sympathies to Ogolla’s family, colleagues, and the entire nation at large.
“My wife Ida and I are deeply saddened and profoundly shocked by the passing of General Francis Ogolla, the Chief of Defence Forces. We join the nation in mourning his loss. Gen. Ogolla was a true patriot, a highly decorated soldier, and a consummate professional who served our country with unwavering dedication.” wrote the Azimio Leader.
The Ministry of Defence Cabinet Secretary, Hon. Aden Duale mourned the fallen general as a distinguished Kenya Airforce officer.
“As the Cabinet Secretary in the Ministry of Defence, I had the privilege of working closely with General Ogolla, both as the Vice and Chief of Defence Forces. He was, to me, a brother first, then a friend, a colleague, and lastly, a General and a member of the Defence Council,” wrote Duale.
“His legacy will forever be cherished in our hearts and in our nation’s history,” celebrated the CS defence.
The State Department for Internal Security PS, Raymond Omollo extended his condolences to the General, “In the wake of this devastating loss, words seem inadequate to convey the depth of our grief,” he eulogized.
The First Lady expressed her prayers and thoughts for General Ogolla’s wife, Aieleen Ogolla, and the entire family during this difficult time.
“I am deeply saddened to learn of the demise of General Francis Omondi Ogolla, the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Our prayers and thoughts are with his wife, Aileen Ogolla, and the family during this difficult time,” wrote the First Lady, Mama Rachel Ruto.
The US Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman wrote, “I had the honor of working with General Ogolla and had great respect for his integrity and dedication to the Kenyan people.”
The Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu also sent her condolences to the Kenyan president, Kenyans, and to the bereaved families as well.