Ruto, Uhuru mourn CDF General Francis Ogolla

Other leaders who condoled the family of CDF General Ogolla include African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki, Azimio Chief Raila Odinga, and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula.

"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. Our hearts go out to his family, his colleagues in the KDF, and the entire nation as we grieve this immense loss," said Odinga.

African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki, in his condolence message, said: "Our thoughts and prayers go to President William Ruto and the people of Kenya following a tragic helicopter accident that claimed the lives of military personnel including the Chief of the Kenyan Defence Forces, General Francis Omondi Ogolla. May their souls rest in peace."

Speaker Wetang'ula wrote: "I stand with reverence together with the nation and our disciplined forces, grieving the tragic loss of Gen. Francis.O. Ogolla, the Chief of the Defence Forces, whose untimely demise in a helicopter crash while on duty in Elgeyo Marakwet County weighs heavily upon our hearts. His unwavering commitment to duty remains unparalleled, leaving behind a legacy of distinguished service to the nation."

The KDF helicopter tragedy that claimed the life of KDF boss Ogolla among other soldiers.

Courtesy: UGC. pic.twitter.com/1ozJB8Koll - The Standard Digital (@StandardKenya) April 18, 2024