How Gen Ogolla Prepared His Family For His Death

General Francis Ogolla was not only a disciplined soldier but also a lifetime student of reality who knew his death would come.

As a soldier living in the edge, the departed general knew his day would come and that when it came, a plan in his will was to be followed.

According to his family, Gen Ogolla lived a simple life despite his military glamorous career and wanted his burial as simple and done to the letter.

Buried within 72 hours

Canon Hezekiah Oduor, General Ogolla’s elder brother said that it was his wish to be buried within 24-72 hours of his death in a simple ceremony.

“In honor of his humble nature, General Ogolla specified that his burial occur within 72 hours of his passing, echoing the profound truth that from dust we came and to dust we shall return.” The family said in a statement.

No casket

The late General Francis Ogolla will be buried without a casket in respecting his wishes, his elder brother Canon Hezekiah said.

He further shared that his brother had even shown him the exact spot for his grave; near his house at Mor village, Siaya County.

Oduor said the burial will be on Sunday, April 21.

The late General Ogolla envisioned a simple ritual burial akin to Muslim practices, wishes the family said he documented in his Will.

According to Ogolla’s instructions, his body should be wrapped in sheets, a decision made to alleviate what he described as unnecessary pressure on the family.

But despite the simplicity of the burial, family revealed that other Luo rituals will be observed.

Ruto visit

Meanwhile, President William Ruto has described the appointment of the late Chief of Defense Forces General Francis Ogolla as the best decision he ever made.

Speaking during a visit to Ogolla’s Nairobi family home Friday, the head of state described him a friend and ally who was smart in all that he did.

He stated that Ogolla’s humility made a huge difference, especially in his dealings with other sectors.

He stated that many terrorist attacks were prevented due to Ogolla’s wisdom.