Raila Tasks 2 MPs To Launch Joint Parliamentary Inquiry On CDF Ogolla Death

Azimio la Umoja coalition led by Raila Odinga has announced the formation of a joint Parliamentary inquiry team with the task of probing the accident and subsequent death of the late Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Francis Ogolla.

Speaking after the Azimio-One Kenya Parliamentary Group meeting held at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Foundation in Nairobi County, National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi who read a statement on behalf of the coalition announced the appointment of Mathare Member of Parliament (MP) Antony Oluoch and Kitui Senator Enock Wambua to lead the joint inquest.

The coalition expressed worry that the government had set up its own team to investigate the circumstances leading to the death of the CDF away from one already gazetted by Transport Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kipchumba Murkomen.

“We have authorized Honorable Antony Oluoch and Senator Enoch Wambua to lead a process of establishing a joint parliamentary inquiry involving both the Senate and the National Assembly into the unfortunate death of General Ogolla,” said Wandayi.

“Already we are seeing worrying signs, we have noted that Mr Ruto set up a different investigation team away from the one gazette by Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen in the gazette notice dated 8th April 2024.”

Murkomen notably set up a seven-member aircraft accident investigation team to assess the recent reports of accidents involving aircraft registered or operated in Kenya.

President William Ruto on Thursday, April 18 announced that the Kenya Air Force dispatched a team to investigate the chopper crash in Elgeyo Marakwet County.

CS Murkomen had however issued a statement clarifying that the mandate to investigate KDF crashes did not fall under his ministry.

"It is the exclusive mandate of the Kenya Defense Forces to investigate accidents involving military aircraft," he explained adding that his ministry only deals with purely civil aviation both private and commercial. 

Meanwhile, the Ugenya MP also announced that the PG had recommended a judicial inquest into the chopper accident, opposing the investigations being led by the military.

“The PG called for a judicial inquest into the accident and death as opposed to mare investigations led by the military that is close to civilians. We also demand that the family of the victims be independently represented in the investigation and inquest,” he added.

Ogolla passed away alongside 9 others in a helicopter crash that took place in West Pokot on Thursday, April 18. He was laid to rest on Sunday, April 21 at his home in Ng'iya, Siaya County.

KDF soldiers escort CDF Francis Ogolla's casket at the Ulinzi Sports Complex during the late general's memorial service on April 20, 2024. /KBC DIGITAL