CDF Ogolla Death: Ruto Declares Three Days Of National Mourning

President William Ruto has announced three days of national mourning in honour of the late Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Francis Ogolla and nine others who perished in a helicopter crash earlier today.

Speaking at State House in Nairobi on Thursday, April 18, the Head of State also announced that flags will fly at half-mast beginning Friday, April 19.

"In honour of the life and the distinguished military career of the fallen general who lost his life not just while in office but in active military duty, the nation will observe a period of 3 days of mourning commencing tomorrow the 19th of April 2024.

"During this time of national mourning, the Kenya flag, the KDF flag, the EAC flag and flags of all formations of the military shall fly at half-mast in the Republic of Kenya and in Kenya Missions abroad," he announced.

In the same vein, the President revealed the last moments of the departed high-ranking military officer before the crash occurred.

"The Chief of Defence Forces had left Nairobi this morning to visit troops deployed in the North Rift under operation Maliza Uhalifu and to also inspect the ongoing school renovation works.

"He departed Chesegon for the recruits training school in Uasin Gishu County where he was scheduled to inspect construction facilities at the institution. Unfortunately, the aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff," he revealed.

Ruto mourned the late Ogolla as a dedicated individual, stating "This is a moment of great sadness for me as the Commander In Chief of the KDF. It is a tragic moment for the KDF fraternity and it is an unfortunate day for the nation at large.

"Our motherland has lost one of her most valiant generals, we have also lost gallant officers, service men and women. The demise of General Ogolla is a painful loss to me and certainly, the sorrow we all feel about this passing on is shared by all Kenyans and most especially the KDF fraternity," he addressed.

Other Condolence Messages

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta

It is with great sadness that I have learned of the tragic passing of General Francis Omondi Ogolla, the Chief of Defence Forces of Kenya. His untimely demise in a helicopter crash at the Kaben-Cheptulel border between Elgeyo Marakwet and West Pokot counties is a significant loss for our nation. 

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. His leadership, bravery, and unwavering commitment to duty have made a lasting impact on our armed forces and our nation as a whole. 

As the Head of State, I had the privilege of serving with General Ogolla as Deputy Commander of the Kenya Air Force, Commander of the Kenya Air Force, and finally as Vice Chief of Defence Forces.

During this period of mourning, please accept my sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathies to the family, friends, and colleagues of the other officers of the ill-fated flight. 

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta (left) and Chief of Defence Forces Francis Ogolla at State House. /PSCU

May the memories of these exceptional military officers, who had a profound influence on our nation, bring you comfort and strength in this difficult time.

Samia Suluhu Hassan

"Nimepokea kwa masikitiko makubwa taarifa ya kifo cha Mkuu wa Majeshi ya Ulinzi ya Jamhuri ya Kenya, Jenerali Francis Omondi Ogolla na wanajeshi wengine tisa katika ajali ya helikopta iliyotokea leo katika Kaunti ya Elgeyo-Marakwet.

"Natuma salamu za pole kwa Rais na Amiri Jeshi Mkuu wa Majeshi ya Ulinzi ya Kenya, Mheshimiwa William Ruto wananchi wote wa Kenya, familia, ndugu, jamaa na marafiki wa wote waliopoteza jamaa zao katika katika ajali hiyo. Poleni sana."

"Mwenyezi Mungu azilaze roho za ndugu zetu hawa mahali pema peponi. Amina."

Rachel Ruto

In her message, she shared a bible verse Psalm 34:18 which states "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."

Meg Whitman (US Ambassador)

I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family of Chief of Defense Forces General Ogolla and to all the families of the victims of this terrible crash. I had the honour of working with General Ogolla and had great respect for his integrity and dedication to the Kenyan people. He was a great friend of the United States and helped advance the U.S.-Kenya partnership.