More condolences pour in for fallen CDF Gen. Francis Ogolla

As the government prepares to honour General Francis Ogolla, leaders across the continent continue to send their messages of condolences to the family of the fallen officer.

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin relayed his condolences saying: "On behalf of the Department of Defense, I send my deepest condolences to the people of Kenya and the Kenya Defence Forces on the tragic death of Kenya's Chief of Defence Forces, General Francis Ogolla."

"We also mourn the loss of his teammates who died Thursday when their military helicopter crashed. Kenya is a stalwart partner of the United States and the Department. I saw the importance of our partnership firsthand in my visit to Kenya last September when I met with General Ogolla and other Kenyan leaders in Nairobi. He will be greatly missed, and his family will be in my prayers."

Burundi's President Everiste Ndayishimiye in a post on X, expressed his condolences describing Ogolla’s loss as one that has been felt across borders.

"The passing of General Francis Omondi Ogolla, the Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces, is a profound sorrow felt beyond borders. My deepest condolences to my brother President William Ruto, the family of the late, and the nation of Kenya. Burundi stands with you during this difficult time," said President Ndayishimiye.

Here in the country, leaders across the political divide continue to condole with the family, with a majority describing him as a man devoted to his work.

EACC Chief Executive Twalib Mbarak mourned General Ogolla’s loss, a close friend and mentor.

“Having joined the military on the same day as General Ogolla in 1984, who has over the years been a close friend and mentor, I am greatly saddened by his untimely demise. His earned and decorated career was a source of inspiration to many public officers. I convey my sympathies and our heartfelt condolences to the KDF, friends, and families of the fallen general, officers, and soldiers.”

Kenya Airport Authority in its condolence message said it “stands in solidarity with the nation as we mourn the passing of CDF, Gen. Francis Omondi Ogolla, and the military personnel who lost their lives in a helicopter crash. Our condolences and heartfelt sympathies go out to their families and the KDF community during this difficult time.”

Ogolla served as the Chief of Defence Forces and died in a helicopter crash alongside nine other officers in Sindar, Elgeyo Marakwet.

He will be laid to rest on Sunday, April 21, and is to be honored with a 19-gun salute as part of Military honors.