Africa-Press – Kenya. National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has asked political leaders to put aside their differences and work together to build the nation.
Addressing mourners at Ng’iya village in Siaya county on Sunday during the burial of Chief of the Defence Forces General Francis Ogolla, Wetang’ula said for a progressive country leaders should unite regardless of their political affiliation.
“This county needs all of us and all of us have a role to play towards its growth,” the Speaker said.
Wetang’ula commended President William Ruto for appointing General Ogolla to serve as CDF, terming the decision “a big lesson to be emulated by other leaders who should work together as one to serve the nation.”
He mourned Ogolla as a gallant leader who dedicated his life to serving the country by ensuring that all corners within the borders were secure.
“We have lost a great man, a fine leader, a brilliant and a wonderful communicator,” Wetang’ula said.
The Speaker recalled instances when he worked with Ogolla, saying that he was full of plans and had a great vision for the country.
“I had an opportunity to work with General Ogolla and his colleagues during my time in the Foreign Affairs ministry over peace issues in the Horn of Africa. He had clarity of mind as to what needed to be done to secure the region. Today, we see off a man who lived by the law, lived by the bible and who lived for this country,” Wetang’ula said.
The Speaker encouraged the family to look up to God for protection, saying that prayers will lift their spirits and strengthen them at this moment of tragedy.
General Ogolla died together with other nine Kenya Defence Forces officers when a chopper they were travelling in crashed in Kaben, Marakwet East, on Thursday while on a tour.
Leaders attending the burial showered the fallen general with accolades as humble, firm, professional and one who feared God.
President William Ruto praised Ogolla as deserving his appointment. He said that he was a patriotic commander who died while serving the nation.
The leadership of KDF celebrated their commander as a mentor, a teacher and father.
Leaders present at the function included Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, CSs Aden Duale, Moses Kuria, Kipchumba Murkomen, Ezekiel Machogu and Rebecca Miano, former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, Narc Kenya leader Martha Karua and Siaya Governor James Orengo.
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