Bury Me Within Three Days: Gen Ogolla's Final Wish to Family

Kenya's Chief of Defence Forces General Francis Ogolla will be buried on Sunday, April 21st, in accordance with his wishes.

The ceremony will be held at his residence in Mor, Alego, Siaya County, within 72 hours of his passing on Thursday. This reflects General Ogolla's desire for a simple and timely farewell, acknowledging the impermanence of life. The service will be preceded by a heartfelt tribute at his local church in Nduru. A separate memorial service is planned for Friday, April 26th, at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Langata, a place frequented by General Ogolla for his regular runs.

The tragic passing of General Ogolla and nine others occurred when their military helicopter crashed shortly after takeoff in West Pokot County. They were on a mission to support troops combating cattle rustling in the northwest region. General Ogolla's family is working with the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) to organize the funeral in a bid to adhere to both military protocol and the General's personal wishes. His wife and close relatives are actively involved in the preparations.

Family members have described General Ogolla as a dedicated and respected leader known for his kind-hearted nature. He was also deeply devoted to his family, having planned to celebrate his father's 100th birthday just a day before his own passing. The funeral is expected to be attended by high-ranking officials including President William Ruto, the Acting Chief of Defence Forces and his deputy, Cabinet Secretaries, and the Attorney General.

While established protocols exist for military funerals, President Ruto has the final say on how this ceremony will be conducted, given General Ogolla's position as the first Chief of Defence Forces to die in office. Kenya and the international community are mourning the passing of General Ogolla who is honoured by President William Ruto as an esteemed four-star General. The announcement of Ogolla's demise has prompted an outpouring of heartfelt condolences and tributes from leaders across the nation and beyond its borders.

Prominent figures from various spheres have paid homage to the late General, celebrating his exemplary service to the country. Opposition leader Raila Odinga has extended his sympathies to the families of the fallen officers, describing Ogolla as a devoted patriot and consummate professional whose commitment to duty was unwavering. Chief Justice Martha Koome, a close friend and fellow church member, reminisces about Ogolla's selfless and humble nature, emphasizing his steadfast patriotism and distinguished service to the nation.

Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetangula acknowledges Ogolla's indelible legacy of exceptional service, reflecting on the profound impact he had on the country's security and defence. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki praises General Ogolla and the other fallen military personnel as brave patriots whose absence has left an undeniable void in the country's ranks. Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu has led the international tributes, extending her sincere condolences to President Ruto and the people of Kenya during this sombre time. UK Commissioner to Kenya Neil Wigan offers his sympathies to the families of the deceased military personnel, emphasizing the close friendship that existed between General Ogolla and the United Kingdom.