Raila Odinga Calls For Transparent And Professional Probe Into KDF Chief's Death

• Opposition leader Raila Odinga has asked the government to lauch an investigation into CDF general Francis Ogolla's death
• He further urged the government to upgrade and modernise military equipment to ensure soldiers' safety in the line of duty
• Kakamega senator Boni Khalwale also called for scrutiny in all state-owned aircraft following recent crash

Nairobi: Azimio leader Raila Odinga has called on the government to ensure serious investigation into the death of Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) general Francis Ogolla.

Probe Francis Ogolla's death

Raila challenged the government to use Ogolla's death to relook into the safety of the aircraft with a view to undertaking a complete overhaul and modernisation of the equipment.

"Many near deaths encounters have occurred with the security aircraft. We may never know what exactly brought down the helicopter in which the general died," Raila said.

In a press statement released on April 19, Raila noted that it was unfortunate the country had lost such a decorated gallant army general whose death may forever remain a mystery.

"The government owes this country a thorough, professional and transparent investigations into his death. Only such an investigation will put the family and the whole nation at peace," he added.

What Raila said about Ogolla

He further praised the deceased as a true patriot and a professional who served Kenya with undying dedication.

" General Ogolla devoted his life to serving this country from the day he graduated, through multiple tours of duty and ultimately as the top soldier in KDF. I acknowlede that the country has lost a good military leader...," he said.

He added that general Ogolla's death is not only a loss to the country but also to the international community.

The opposition leader also offered his condolences to the families of the Kenya Defence Forces officers who passed away alongside general Ogolla.

Khalwale calls for probe into state-owned planes

Even as the country comes to terms with the tragedy, calls for probe into the Kenya Defence Forces chopper crash reverberated across the nation.

Kakamega senator Boni Khalwale demanded a thorough scrutiny of all state-owned aircraft following recent crash in the country.

According to Khalwale the consistency of the crash belonging to Kenya Air Force and the National Police Air wing calls for probe into their worthiness.

He added that there have been 17 helicopter crashes from the forces and the police service since 2012.

Khalwale said a scrutiny was needed to access the process including maintenance and operationalisation of the helicopters to determine their worthiness.