- During Tuesday’s session, Wetang'ula also led members in observing a minute of silence in honour of Ogolla and the nine other fallen soldiers.
- The Speaker also used the opportunity to convey a message of goodwill to the two soldiers who survived the crash.
Image: FILE
MPs will on Wednesday hold a special session on the floor of House to pay tribute to the late Chief of Defence Forces General Francis Ogolla.
In a communication, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula said the House Business Committee will also prioritise a motion that seeks to have the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and other Special Forces personnel given priority boarding all local airlines.
The motion sponsored by Lamu East MP Captain Ruweida Obo was first introduced in the House in October last year.
“This will not only give an opportunity to the member to move her motion but also accord other members to honour the legacy of the late General Francis Ogolla and recognise the contribution of KDF in defending Kenya’s sovereignty,” Wetangula said.
The motion has been slotted in the Order paper for the morning sitting.
During Tuesday’s session, Wetang'ula also led members in observing a minute of silence in honour of Ogolla and the nine other fallen soldiers.
They perished in a helicopter crash Thursday last week at Sindar area, Toto division on the border of West Pokot and Elegiyo Marakwet counties.
The Speaker also used the opportunity to convey a message of goodwill to the two soldiers who survived the crash.
Ogolla was laid to rest on Sunday at his Ng’iya home in Siaya in a ceremony attended by President William Ruto among other top national and foreign dignitaries.
Wetang'ula acknowledged that the country lost one of its most valiant and decorated soldier, noting that Ogolla remains an epitome of patriotism and true leadership.
In her motion, Ruweda, wants the Ministry of Transport to establish a boarding protocol such that all military and special forces including veterans are granted privilege to board local aircrafts before the general public.
She argues that soldiers play an indispensable role in promoting and safeguarding national security and there is currently no token of appreciation to them.
“It is important to accord special privileges and honours to our military and veteran personnel, akin to the practice observed in other countries including being allowed to access services like banking hall and boarding of flights ahead of the general public,” the motion reads in part.
The legislator notes that members of the Forces face life-threatening risks as they carry out their duties to protect our citizens, particularly in high-risk and volatile areas.
She says such practice would not only instill a sense of pride among them but also enhance their morale and motivation thereby boosting their performance and commitment to national security.
Ruweda avers that at the moment, there exists no national policy or framework to facilitate the implementation of such a practice.
The United States and the UK are among countries that currently give their veterans priority at airports when boarding flights to local destinations.