President William Ruto has declared a three-day period of national mourning following the tragic demise of Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Francis Ogolla, who lost his life in a helicopter crash on Thursday at Sindar area in Elgeyo Marakwet County, alongside nine other military personnel.
Speaking to reporters at State House in Nairobi, President Ruto expressed his grief over the loss of General Ogolla, describing him as a courageous military officer and a devoted patriot who devoted his life to serving his nation with utmost honor and excellence.
“This is a moment of profound sorrow for myself, as the Commander in Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces, the entire Kenya Defence Forces community, and the nation as a whole.
Our country has lost one of its bravest generals, outstanding officers, and dedicated servicemen and women,” stated Ruto.
“The passing of General Ogolla is a significant loss to me personally, and undoubtedly, the grief we all share over his departure is felt by all Kenyans, particularly within the KDF community.
A distinguished four-star General has fallen while fulfilling his duty and serving his country.”
In addition to offering condolences to Ogolla’s family and associates, the President directed that all flags across Kenya be flown at half-mast during the designated three-day period.
“As a tribute to the life and remarkable military career of the late General, who not only served in office but also in active military operations, the nation will observe three days of mourning starting from April 19,” announced the President.
“Throughout this mourning period, the national flag, as well as the flags of the KDF, East African countries, and all military formations, will fly at half-mast in the Republic of Kenya and at Kenyan diplomatic missions abroad.”
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