The memorial service for the late Chief of Defence Forces,General Francis Ogolla, has undergone a postponement. Initially scheduled to take place on Friday, April 26, 2024, at the Ulinzi Sports Complex located in Lang’ata, the service has been deferred to a later date.
Both the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and the late General’s family confirmed the postponement in a joint statement. The announcement came after General Ogolla’s tragic demise in an air crash alongside nine other soldiers. The late General was interred on Sunday at his home in Siaya County.
Announcement of The Postponement
The Kenya Defence Forces and the late General’s family jointly announced the deferral of the memorial service. The ceremony initially scheduled for April 26, 2024, was set to be held at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Lang’ata. The new date for the event is yet to be announced.
The joint communique did not provide an immediate explanation for the postponement. However, it acknowledged the outpouring support and attendance at the Sunday state funeral.
Reflection on General Ogolla’s Influence
In the wake of General Ogolla’s untimely passing, the joint statement reflected on his immense influence and far-reaching impact as a military General, a patriot, a national leader, a Christian, and a family man.
“We have been reflecting on his immense influence and the far-reaching impact he had as a military general, a patriot, a national leader, a Christian, and as a family man,” part of the statement reads.
His life teachings and virtues are cherished, and gratitude expressed to the Almighty Lord for the privilege to interact with him and bear witness to his way of life.
General Ogolla’s Burial
General Francis Omondi Ogolla, the late Chief of Defence Forces, was buried in his home in Ng’iya, Siaya County. His burial took place a few minutes before 4 p.m. without a coffin, with only a piece of cloth covering his body, in line with his wish.
The final ceremony was an exclusive event attended only by family members, friends, members of the military, as well as current and former government officials. In honor of the late Kenya Defence Forces boss, mourners observed a minute of silence.
President William Ruto, First Lady Rachael Ruto, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, and Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale were among the government officials who laid wreaths at Ogolla’s gravesite.
Tragic Death of General Ogolla
The military chief encountered his tragic death on Thursday afternoon in a helicopter crash alongside nine other officers. General Ogolla had directed that he be buried within 72 hours of his death.
The 62-year-old is survived by his widow, Aileen Kathambi Ogolla, and two children; Lorna Achieng’ Omondi and Joel Rabuku Omondi Ogolla.
The Future of the Memorial Service
While the memorial service for the late General has been postponed, the KDF and the late General’s family assure that a new date for the memorial service will be announced in due time.
It is hoped that the memorial service will provide another opportunity to honor General Ogolla’s legacy and pay respects to his significant contributions to the nation.
Conclusion
The postponement of the memorial service for the late Chief of Defence Forces, General Francis Ogolla, marks a pause in the nation’s mourning. As the country awaits the new date for the service, the memory of the late General and his significant contributions to the nation continue to be cherished.
Despite the tragic circumstances of his death, General Ogolla’s influence as a military general, a patriot, a national leader, a Christian, and a family man continues to be remembered and celebrated. His legacy is a testament to his dedication and service to the country, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him.