For much of Thursday afternoon, unconfirmed reports circulated throughout Kenya regarding the tragic fate of several senior military officials, led by General Francis Omondi Ogolla EGH EBS HSC, the Chief of the Defence Forces.The devastating news was later confirmed by President William Ruto in the evening, plunging the entire nation into mourning. President Ruto announced three days of mourning in honour of the fallen soldiers.##NAJAVA_MECA_8038962##“This afternoon at 2:20 pm, our nation suffered a tragic air accident… I am deeply saddened to announce the passing of General Francis Omondi Ogolla, the Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces (CDF),” the Commander in Chief of the Defence Forces announced.“For me, as the Commander in Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces, it is a tragic moment for the Kenya Defence Forces fraternity, and it is a most unfortunate day for the nation at large,” Ruto added.General Ogolla and nine other military personnel lost their lives when the helicopter they were travelling in crashed in Kaben, Marakwet, bursting into flames upon impact. Among those who perished were Brigadier Swaleh Said, Colonel Dancan Keitany, Lieutenant Col. David Sawe, Major George Benson Magondu, Capt. Sora Mohammed, Capt. Hillary Litali, Snr Sgt John Kinyua Mureithi, Sgt. Cliffonce Omondi, and Sgt. Rose Nyawira. General Francis Omondi Ogolla EGH EBS HSC was an easy happy figure.Last year, he joined Ulinzi Stars players for morning runs, happily chanting with the group.May his soul, and those of the other victims of the plane crash, rest in peace.#FootballKE pic.twitter.com/0zJed5lGqA— Ole Teya (@TeyaKevin) April 18, 2024 Only one person, junior KDF officer Frankford Karanja Mogire, survived the crash and is currently undergoing treatment.The sports community has joined in mourning the loss of General Ogolla and his colleagues. Although not heavily involved in sports, his fitness at 61 shamed many younger Nairobi men with less active lifestyles. A video of him training with Ulinzi Stars FC last year emerged online, highlighting his commitment to fitness.Earlier this year, he participated in overseeing the start of the construction of Talanta Sports City Stadium, directed by President Ruto for the upcoming 2027 African Cup of Nations. President Ruto instructed him and the Defence Cabinet Secretary, Aden Duale, to make frequent visits to the facility to ensure timelines were observed.The Kenyan sports fraternity, led by CS Hon. Ababu Namwamba, mourned General Ogolla, praising him as a competent officer who prioritized excellence.“A fine son of Kenya. A fitting Chief of our Kenya Defence Forces… What a loss, what a national tragedy! Salute, General,” Namwamba expressed.FKF succumbs to pressure, imposes new measures on ‘unsportsmanlike’ Muhoroni YouthMessages of condolence poured in from various quarters, including Gor Mahia patron Hon. Raila Odinga, former Harambee Stars captain, Victor Wanyama FKF Premier League sides Tusker FC, Kenya Police FC, Bandari FC, and Mozzart Sports, expressing sympathy to the families and friends of the departed souls.“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,” read a statement from Gor Mahia patron Hon. Raila Odinga.“We also extend our very heartfelt condolences to the families of the KDF team who were accompanying Gen. Ogolla. We know that at this moment words will not be enough to console your tremendous grief. We pray the Lord may give you comfort. May the souls of all those who have departed find eternal peace,” Mr. Odinga’s statement concluded.“I’m saddened to hear about the passing of our gallant soldiers, led by General Francis Ogolla, in an aircraft accident. I extend my sincere condolences to the loved ones of the affected and the KDF family. May the souls of the departed rest in peace. Additionally, I wish a quick recovery to the survivors,” former Harambee Stars captain posted on his Facebook page.“To our brothers at Ulinzi Stars FC, the entire KDF family, and the nation at large, we send our heartfelt condolences following the tragic loss of our Chief of Defense Forces, Gen Ogolla. May we all find comfort during this difficult period,” read Tusker’s statement.Faiz Ouma officially joins MLS Next Pro side Huntsville City“Our deepest condolences to our brothers Ulinzi Stars FC and the entire Kenya Defence Forces family on the passing of the chief of defence forces. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time. MAY HE REST IN PEACE,” read a statement from the law enforcers.“Today, we mourn the loss of a great leader and patriot, CDF Ogolla. Our hearts are heavy as we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the entire nation. His dedication to service and unwavering commitment to our country will always be remembered,” Bandari FC said in a statement.We at Mozzart Sports would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the departed souls. May they rest in peace.Sofapaka handed transfer ban for breaches on player contract
