NAIROBI, Kenya, Apr 19 – Opposition leader Raila Odinga on Friday led Azimio leaders in condoling the wife of the late Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Francis Ogolla Aileen at his Nairobi home.
Odinga was accompanied by among others Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and his Narc Kenya counterpart Martha Karua.
In his tribute to General Ogolla, Odinga stated that the country had lost a leader with deep knowledge and steady leadership.
“I admired the General’s vision to make our military stronger and more professional. Men of Gen Ogolla’s utter dedication to the country and cause are rare,” he stated.
“The loss of such a man is Kenya’s and the international Community’s loss. He was a leader who shared his strength and faith with all who knew him including his juniors.”
A memorial service to honor Ogolla will be held next Friday, April 26.
The service for Ogolla, who perished alongside nine others following a chopper crash in Elgeyo Marakwet on Thursday, will take place at the Ulinzi Sports Complex, where his family says, Ogolla “found solace in his biweekly runs.”
The commemoration will come five days after his burial, which is slated to take place at his Mor, Alego, home in Siaya County on April 21.
Ogolla’s family disclosed Friday that the late Military Chief Ogolla had left instructions in his will to be buried within 72 hours of his death.
According to sources, the military had been informed of the will and is working within the timelines to ensure it is honoured.
Given the circumstances of his demise while in office, the state has taken over the coordination of the memorial event.
