Kenya’s president leads nation in honoring defense chief killed in helicopter crash

By Andrew Wasike

NAIROBI, Kenya (AA) - Kenyan President William Ruto led the nation on Sunday in bidding farewell to Chief of Defense Forces Gen. Francis Ogolla, who lost his life last week in a helicopter crash.

Ogolla was laid to rest in a ceremony held in Alego Usonga Constituency in Siaya County in western Kenya.

It was marked by a somber yet colorful tribute culminating in a 19-gun salute honoring his service and sacrifice.

"Many people do not understand the loss that we have incurred as a country. There are very few leaders who can fit in the categorization and shoes of General Ogolla,” Ruto said at the event.

Ogolla was among 10 people who died in the army helicopter crash last Thursday.

Ruto announced three days of mourning to pay homage to the fallen heroes, during which flags were flown at half-staff as a symbol of national grief and solidarity.

A specialized air investigations team has been assembled and dispatched to determine the cause of the incident.