Why Raila Want Independent Probe Into Chopper Crash That Killed Gen Ogolla

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has called for a professional and independent investigation into the helicopter crash that killed Chief of Defence Forces Francis Ogolla.

Mr. Odinga in a statement sent to newsrooms acknowledges that Kenya has experienced similar incidents in the past and there’s a need to dig deeper into what is going on.

“Even as we mourn, I wish to pose a challenge to the government. There has been long running concern about the state of helicopters and other equipment being used by our security sector.” He said.

Odinga fears that if much is not done, the truth as to what befell the General and other military officers will never be known.

“Many near death encounters have occurred with the security aircrafts. We may never know what exactly brought down the helicopter in which the general died.” He said in part.

“It is our prayer that this tragedy may mark the beginning of a serious relook into our security equipment, especially the aircrafts with a view to undertaking a complete overhaul and modernization of the equipment. That was the General’s vision.”

Raila emphasizes on the probe as the only way to give the public and the family a full closure of the death.

“More importantly, the government owes this country a thorough, professional and transparent investigations into this death. Only such an investigation will put the family and the whole nation at peace.” He said.

Azimio questions

His party Azimio proposed that an independent international air accident probe team be enlisted to handle the matter.

“No effort or resources should be spared including securing the services of international experts or investigators to get the bottom of this matter as it raises grave concerns,” Azimio said in a statement read by Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka.

The coalition listed a barrage of key questions that they wanted the investigation to unravel.

“Is it routine for a CDF to inspect classroom construction or was it a directive from somewhere?” the coalition asked, adding, “Was it normal for him to be in a chopper with so many other military personnel?

“Was this his designated chopper and if not where was his designated chopper?

“These are some of the urgent questions that must be answered and Kenyans deserve answers. We therefore call for a time-bound public inquiry,” Kalonzo said.

On Friday, Raila led a section of Azimio leaders to pay a visit to the family of Ogolla at his Ng’iya home in Siaya to express condolences and support.

Raila Tribute to Gen Ogolla 

Mr. Odinga expressed his admiration for the late general, “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 acknowledge that our country has lost a military leader with deep knowledge, steady leadership, and strong judgment. I admired the General’s vision to make our military stronger and more professional.”

Mr. Odinga added that Ogolla was a rare breed of soldier, “Men of General Ogolla’s utter dedication to the country and cause are rare. The loss of such a man is Kenya’s and international community’s loss. He was a leader who shared his strength and faith with all who knew him, including his juniors. On each of the happy occasions when our paths crossed with General, I was deeply impressed by the strength of his spirit and his cool confidence in the future security of our country.”