Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu on Thursday April 18, 2024 joined other leaders in mourning the death of Kenya’s Chief of Defence Forces General Francis Ogolla.

In a statement on her X account, President Suluhu noted that she was saddened by the death of General Ogolla.

“Nimepokea kwa masikitiko makubwa taarifa ya kifo cha Mkuu wa Majeshi ya Ulinzi ya Jamhuri ya Kenya, Jenerali Francis Omondi Ogolla na wanajeshi wengine tisa katika ajali ya helikopta iliyotokea leo katika Kaunti ya Elgeyo-Marakwet.

Natuma salamu za pole kwa Rais na Amiri Jeshi Mkuu wa Majeshi ya Ulinzi ya Kenya, Mheshimiwa  William Ruto, wananchi wote wa Kenya, familia, ndugu, jamaa na marafiki na wote waliopoteza jamaa zao katika katika ajali hiyo. Poleni sana,” President Suluhu noted in a statement. 

At the same time, Kenya’s First Lady Rachel Ruto conveyed her message of condolence to the family of the late General Ogolla.

“I am deeply saddened to learn of the demise of General Francis Omondi Ogolla, the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF).

“Our prayers and thoughts are with his wife, Aieleen Ogolla, and the family during this difficult time,” the First lady noted in a statement posted on her Facebook page.

On the other hand, Azimio leader Raila Odinga noted that he was saddened by the sudden death of General Ogolla. 

“A terrible day for Kenya: My wife Ida and I are deeply saddened and profoundly shocked by the passing of General. Francis Ogolla, the Chief of Defence Forces. 

“We join the nation in mourning his loss. Gen. Ogolla was a true patriot, a highly decorated soldier, and a consummate professional who served our country with unwavering dedication,” Raila noted in a statement.

The ODM party leader condoled with the bereaved family, his colleagues in the KDF, and the entire nation during the mourning period.

“We also extend our very heartfelt condolences to the families of the KDF team who were accompanying Gen. Ogolla,” he added.

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta also noted that he was shocked by the death of General Ogolla.

In a statement on his X account, Uhuru noted that General Ogolla’s death was a significant loss to Kenya.

“The CDF was not only an accomplished military leader, but also a devoted patriot who dedicated his life to serving and protecting our beloved country. 

“His leadership, bravery, and unwavering commitment to duty have made a lasting impact on our armed forces and our nation as a whole.

“As the Head of State, I had the privilege of serving with General Ogolla as Deputy Commander of the Kenya Air Force, Commander of the Kenya Air Force, and finally as Vice Chief of Defence Forces,” Uhuru stated.