‘There shall never be again extrajudicial killings or political assassinations’ – Ruto
President William Ruto has promised Kenyans that he will work tirelessly to prevent any recurrence of extrajudicial killings or political assassinations in Kenya.
Speaking during the burial of Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Francis Ogolla in Ng'iya, Siaya County on Sunday, April 21, the Head of State acknowledged that many lives have been lost through these heinous acts over the years.
"I did make a commitment to the people of Kenya and I have this to say. We have indeed lost many people because of extrajudicial killings, we have indeed lost many Kenyans through political assassinations," he affirmed.
Adding;
I made a commitment to to the people of Kenya, and let me say this here, for the avoidance of doubt, and without any fear of contradiction, there shall never be again extrajudicial killings or political assassinations. There shall never be another occasion where we have bodies of Kenyans in River Yala. Not under my watch."
President Ruto's sentiments come hot on the heels of on-air speculations about the tragic passing of General Ogolla and nine other junior officers in a helicopter crash at the Kaben-Cheptulel border between Elgeyo Marakwet and West Pokot Counties.
There have been growing calls from leaders and the country at large for a probe into the crash.
Ruto announces death of Ogolla
The tragic demise of CDF General Ogolla was announced by Ruto from State House on Thursday, April 18.
“I’m deeply saddened to announce the passing on of General Francis Omondi Ogolla, the Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces,” Ruto has confirmed.
The president also revealed that the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) chopper was carrying 12 military personnel; and that 10 (including CDF Ogolla) died while two survived.
"Together with him (CDF Francis Ogolla), in the crash, were 11 other gallant military personnel; nine (9) who also passed on with him and two survivors," he announced.
He further announced all the names of those who passed on. “The gallant military personnel who passed on with General Ogolla are; Brigadier Swaleh Said, Colonel Dancan Keitany, Lieutenant Col. David Sawe, Major George Benson Magondu (was the pilot), Capt. Sora Mohammed, Capt. Hillary Litali, Snr Sgt John Kinyua Mureithi, Sgt. Cliffonce Omondi and Sgt. Rose Nyawira,” he revealed to the nation.
A Huey helicopter belonging to the Kenya Air Force crashed shortly after departing from a nearby local primary school.
Ogolla enlisted in the Kenya Defence Forces on April 24, 1984, and was granted the rank of 2nd Lieutenant on May 6, 1985. He was subsequently assigned to the Kenya Air Force.
Ogolla passed away at the age of 61.
