The situation at the late CDF General Francis Ogolla's family home in Siaya. [Michael Mute, Standard]
In a bittersweet gathering, the family of the late Chief of Defence Forces Francis Ogolla celebrated his late father’s Mzee Joel Oyeyo's 100th birthday,
The event, organized by Gen. Ogolla before the tragic helicopter crash that claimed his life and nine other military officers, brought both joy and sorrow to the family's Masumbi village home in Alego Usonga.
Amidst songs of celebration for Mzee Oyeyo's milestone, mourners grappled with the loss of Gen. Ogolla.
A church service, led by the Anglican Church, marked the culmination of the birthday festivities.
Political leaders, government officials, and relatives paid tribute to the late General, highlighting his leadership and generosity.
"Today we had arranged that we would celebrate Mzee's birthday. The planning was being done by the General himself and he had assigned each family member a role. He was spearheading it," noted his brother-in-law, Prof Julius Ochuodho.
Further plans for the celebration, including the consecration of a village Anglican Church constructed by Gen. Ogolla, were set for Sunday.
During the birthday gathering, the family praised Gen. Ogolla as a compassionate individual who cared for widows and exhibited unparalleled generosity. "He had a heart that even mine cannot compare to," remarked his eldest sister, Pères Onyango.
As preparations for CDF Gen. Ogolla's burial continue, Interior PS Raymond Omollo outlined the proceedings.
The funeral ceremony will be restricted to military leadership, senior government officials, and family members, and will include a service at Senator Barrack Obama Primary School followed by a private consecration service at a church, and finally, the General's interment at his home.
"I appeal to political leaders that let us live up to his wishes during the burial," urged PS Omollo, emphasizing that General Ogolla will be laid to rest according to military protocols and his personal wishes.
