By Wilfridah Murenga
Opposition leader Raila Odinga has called for a comprehensive and open investigation into the tragic passing of the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Francis Ogolla.
In a statement on Friday, Raila expressed his condolences to General’s family and the families of the other officials who perished alongside him. He also condoled the Kenya Defence Forces.
“I join the people of Kenya, and indeed the international community in mourning our decorated fallen soldier. General Francis Ogola. My thoughts and prayers are with the General’s family and the families of those who perished alongside him. I extend sympathies and prayers to the Kenya Defence Forces for which the General held big dreams and provided sound and firm leadership,” Raila said.
The Azimio la Umoja One Kenya alliance leader added that General Ogolla dedicated his life to serving his Country.
“General Ogolla devoted his life to serving this country, from the day he graduated, through multiple tours of duty, and ultimately as the top soldier in KDF. I acknowledge that our country has lost a military leader with deep knowledge, steady leadership, and strong judgment. I admired the General’s vision to make our military stronger and more professional,” He added.
Raila on the other hand raised concerns about the condition of military equipment being used by the security sector, highlighting multiple incidents involving the military aircraft.
“Many near-death encounters have occurred with the security aircraft. We may never know what exactly brought down the helicopter in which the general died. It is our prayer that this tragedy may mark the beginning of a serious relooks into our security equipment, especially the aircraft to undertake a complete overhaul and modernization of the equipment. That was the General’s vision,” read the statement.
The opposition leader also urged the government to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into General Ogolla’s death. He emphasized that only such an investigation would provide solace to his family and ensure tranquility for the entire nation.
“Only such an investigation will put the family and the whole nation at peace. May the General and his departed colleagues rest in peace,” He said.