The Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) has expressed profound condolences following the tragic death of Kenya’s Chief of Defense Forces (CDF), Gen. Francis Ogolla, and nine others in a helicopter crash in Sindar, Elgeyo-Marakwet County. Brig. Felix Kulayigye, Uganda’s defense spokesperson, conveyed the UPDF’s sympathies to Gen. Ogolla’s family and the Kenyan nation in a statement issued on Friday.
“On behalf of the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Muhoozi Kainerugaba and the entire UPDF fraternity, we wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), the bereaved families, and the entire Kenyan nation upon the demise of these gallant officers,” Kulayigye stated. “In the demise of General Ogolla, Kenya and indeed the entire East African Community (EAC) have lost an accomplished general. Our hearts are with the bereaved families.”
President William Ruto officially announced Gen. Ogolla’s passing during a live address at State House, Nairobi, declaring a three-day period of national mourning to honor Gen. Ogolla and the other victims of the accident. The tragic incident has prompted an outpouring of tributes from various high-profile figures, with former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga and former President Uhuru Kenyatta among those paying respects to Gen. Ogolla.
“A terrible day for Kenya: My wife Ida and I are deeply saddened and profoundly shocked by the passing of General Francis Ogolla, the Chief of Defense Forces,” Odinga shared on social media. “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.”
Former President Kenyatta described Gen. Ogolla’s demise as a “significant loss” to Kenya.
The tragic accident has not only saddened the nation but has also highlighted the profound impact of Gen. Ogolla’s service and leadership within Kenya and the wider East African community.
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