Editor's Review

The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Francis Ogolla is dead.

President William Ruto has announced the death of Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Francis Ogolla. 

"Today at 2:20 pm, our nation suffered a tragic air accident in Elgeyo Marakwet. I am deeply saddened to announce the passing on of General Francis Omondi Ogolla, the Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces. Together with him in the crash were 11 other gallant military personnel, 9 who also passed on with him and 2 survivors," Ruto announced on Thursday, April 18. 

The President disclosed that there were other eleven military personnel who were on the chopper with the late Chief of Defense Forces Ogolla. 

Nine of the military personnel died alongside CDF Ogolla while two survived. 

The President said that the late Ogolla had left Nairobi on Thursday morning to visit troops deployed in the North Rift under Operation Maliza Uhalifu, and to inspect the ongoing school renovations works in schools.

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"As part of his working tour, the CDF had been briefed on the security situation by a multi-agency team stationed at Chesitet in Baringo County, after which he proceeded to the Kainuk Forward Operating Base in Turkana County, where he addressed troops, commending them for their resilience and operational successes," President Ruto. 

File image of Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Francis Ogolla.

The Head of State added, "The CDF and his entourage departed from Kainuk to Chesegon, West Pokot County, where he launched the rehabilitation of Cheptulel Boys High School. He then departed Chesegon for the Recruits Training School in Uasin Gishu County, where he was scheduled to inspect construction facilities at the institution. Unfortunately, the aircraft crashed shortly after take-off."  

Prior to this appointment, General Francis Omondi Ogolla was the Vice Chief of the Defence Forces.

Ogolla was sworn into office as the CDF on April 19 at State House Nairobi.

During the swearing-in, President Ruto marvelled at the illustrious career the former has had over the years in different ranks in the service.

The president exuded confidence in Ogolla's tenure which is expected to last for about four years.

"I assessed your background and I am satisfied that you merit the office," said the president then.