- He stated that through the loss, he appreciated the extraordinary privilege he got to work closely with Ogola, noting that he benefitted from his wisdom, experience and insights.
- He also appreciated that he got to witness the late CDF in action, serving his nation with admirable commitment and providing excellent command leadership of the Kenya Defence Forces.
Image: PCS
As the country mourns the fallen Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Francis Ogolla, President William Ruto has yet again expressed sadness following the loss.
In a statement on his X page on Saturday, Ruto said he had come to admire the man over the time adding that he was proud of the decision to appoint him as CDF.
"I know that I have already said, and want to say again, that his death is a painful loss to me personally. This is a man I had come to admire very much, one of the best appointments I have made as President," he said.
"I am certain that I share this profound sorrow with the people of Kenya, and especially those who knew him. I take meagre comfort in knowing that General Ogolla, a veteran commander, airman and soldier, fell in the course of duty, doing what he loved most: Leading his gallant officers to restore order and tranquility in a deeply troubled part of the country."
Ruto stated this following his address at Ulinzi Stadium in Lang'ata for the military honor and memorial service for the fallen General.
Ogolla and nine others including Captain Hillary Litali, Captain Sora Mohamed, Colonel Duncan Keitany, Senior Sergeant John Kinyua Mureithi, Sergeant Cliphonce Omondi, Major George Benson Magondu, Brigadier Swale Saidi and Sergeant Rose Nyawira, passed away on Thursday in an aircraft crush.
Acknowledging this, President Ruto described the helicopter crash as an unfortunate accident that robbed the nation of fine and dedicated patriots whose ability, professionalism and selfless dedication were self-evident.
"As a result, the Kenya Defence Forces has lost highly promising officers who still had so much to contribute to the strength, security and glory of our country, together with their leader and commander, General Francis Ogolla," he said.
Noting that he has met, interacted and worked with many outstanding men and women whose achievements and visions represent the best of what Kenya has to offer, Ruto said General Francis Ogolla stood head and shoulders among the finest of the exemplary public servants.
He stated that through the loss, he appreciated the extraordinary privilege he got to work closely with Ogola, noting that he benefitted from his wisdom, experience and insights.
He also appreciated that he got to witness the late CDF in action, serving his nation with admirable commitment and providing excellent command leadership of the Kenya Defence Forces.
"I am aware that off-duty, General Ogolla was involved in various services for the benefit of the community, including youth motivation and guidance," he added.
Condoling Ogolla's family, President Ruto said they are a reflection of the General's strength, grace and serenity even in the most difficult of times.
"You have comforted us when we should be comforting you and encouraged us when we should be encouraging you. In each of you, we glimpse General Ogolla’s best qualities, and know that his spirit lives even though physically he is no longer with us," he said.
"Thank you for this miraculous example, and may God be with you, bless and comfort you all in a special way according to His divine will."
Ruto also send a message of condolence to the families of the nine other officers.
"On behalf of the people and the government of Kenya, I send a message of condolence to the families of all the officers we have lost. We are with you in thought and prayer and ask the Almighty God to grant you solace as you come to terms with this loss," the President said.