19-gun salute as General Ogolla is laid to rest in Siaya

The late Chief of Defence Forces, General Francis Omondi Ogolla was laid to rest at his home in Ng’iya, Siaya County on Sunday afternoon.

The final ceremony was attended only by family members, friends, members of the military, as well as current and former government officials.

Ogolla was accorded a 19-gun salute similar to the late former presidents Mwai Kibaki and Daniel Moi. Mourners observed a minute of silence in honour of the departed Kenya Defence Forces boss.

President William Ruto, First Lady Rachael Ruto, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale were among the government officials who laid wreaths at Ogolla’s gravesite.

The military chief died Thursday afternoon in a helicopter crash alongside nine other officers.

Ogolla had directed that he be buried within 72 hours of his death.

The 62-year-old is survived by his widow, Aileen Kathambi Ogolla and two children; Lorna Achieng’ Omondi and Joel Rabuku Omondi Ogolla.

He also leaves behind one daughter-in-law; Muthoni Njenga Mwaura, and one grandson.