CDF Ogolla to be honoured with 19-gun salute

The late Chief of Defence Forces, Francis Ogolla will be honoured with a 19-gun salute as part of Military Honours.

According to Defence CS Aden Duale, Ogolla will also be accorded a church service and a military parade, as is procedure since he died in office.

"In accordance with the military procedures, the Military Honours ceremony will be conducted on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Lang'ata," Duale said in a statement.

At the same time, Duale revealed that a post-mortem examination was conducted on Friday at the Mashujaa Funeral Home in the Defence Forces Memorial Hospital.

Ogolla's burial is set for April 21, in adherence to his will, where he asked his family to ensure he is buried within 72 hours of his death.

"In honour of his humble nature, General Ogolla specified that his burial occurs within 72 hours of his passing, echoing the profound truth that from dust we came and to dust we shall return," the family stated.

Among those set to attend the burial include senior government officials led by President William Ruto.

Ogolla died in a helicopter crash on Thursday, April 18, in the Sindar area, Kaben location, Tot division, in Elgeyo Marakwet.

The Vice Chief of Defence Forces Lt Gen Charles Muriu Kahariri will act as Chief of Defence Forces until a substantive appointment is made.