President Samia Suluhu Mourns Chief Of Defence Forces Francis Ogolla: "Masikitiko Makubwa"

• Chief of the Defence Forces Francis Ogolla and nine KDF officers died in a tragic helicopter crash on March 18
• Several leaders, including President William Ruto, Raila Odinga and Martha Karua mourned the four-star general
• Tanzania's president Samia Suluhu extended her condolences to the nation and the families of the bereaved in light of the devastating loss

Tanzanian president Samia Suluhu has joined leaders across the continent in mourning Chief of Defence Forces, General Francis Ogolla and the nine army men who lost their lives in a helicopter crash.

Samia Suluhu on CDF Francis Ogolla, KDF officers' death

On her X page, Suluhu expressed her grief, paying tribute to the late General Ogolla and the nine KDF officers, noting the deep sadness their passing has brought.

"I have received with great sorrow the news of the death of the Chief of Defence Forces of the Republic of Kenya, General Francis Omondi Ogolla, and nine other soldiers in a helicopter accident that occurred today in Elgeyo-Marakwet county," she said.

Samia Suluhu to General Ogolla's family

She offered her heartfelt condolences to President William Ruto, the Kenyan nation, and the bereaved families of all those who died in the tragic accident.

"I send my condolences to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces of Kenya, His Excellency William Ruto, all the citizens of Kenya, and the families, relatives, and friends of all those who have lost their loved ones in this accident. My deepest sympathies," she added.

Suluhu prayed for the souls of the departed, hoping they find peace in the afterlife.

"May Almighty God rest the souls of our departed brothers in eternal peace. Amen.”

Martha Karua, Rachel Ruto mourn General Ogolla

First lady Rachel Ruto, Marth Karua and several other leaders led the country in mourning General Ogolla.

Karua shared her tribute on X as she wished peace and comfort to the bereaved families.

Similarly, First Lady Rachel sent her condolences to the family of the late general, captain and the men in uniform who passed on.

Developments in CDF Francis Ogolla, KDF officers' death

• TUKO.co.ke compiled several lovely photos of the senior KDf officers, who died alongside General Ogolla during their better days
• TUKO.co.ke reviewed the features, cost and speed of the Bell Huey II helicopter that crashed and killed Ogolla and his compatriots
• A photo showing the last moments of CDF Ogolla before the tragic accident emerged.

Proofreading by Asher Omondi, current affairs journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.