Bunge Tower opening postponed after death of CDF Ogolla

The official opening of the Ksh.9.6 billion Bunge Tower which was initially set for Friday has now been postponed to next week.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula made the announcement on Thursday night saying the launch, which was supposed to be presided over ommissioned by President William Ruto, had been pushed following after the tragic death of Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Francis Ogolla.

General Ogolla was killed in a helicopter crash on Thursday at Sindar area in Elgeyo Marakwet County, alongside nine other military personnel.

Speaker Wetangula, who also chairs the Parliamentary Service Commission, now says the Bunge Tower will be opened on Thursday, April 25, beginning at 9am.

“As you are aware, tomorrow, Friday, April 24, 2024, President William Ruto was scheduled to officially open the Bunge Tower.  However, this evening, in his address to the Nation, His Excellency the President announced the unfortunate and untimely demise of General Francis Ogolla, the CDF, who died in a helicopter crash alongside nine other gallant officers this afternoon,” Wetangula stated in a letter to MPs.

“Following the tragic event, the President has announced three days of national mourning. In view of the foregoing, this is to notify you that the official opening Ceremony of the Bunge Tower that was scheduled to take place tomorrow has been postponed.”

He added: “The official opening ceremony has been rescheduled and shall now be held next week, Thursday, 25th April 2024 from 9.00 am.”

In a communiqué to the legislators on Wednesday, Wetangula highlighted the significance of the building, emphasizing the long-awaited completion of the Parliamentary complex.

He also warned of disciplinary action against Members of Parliament speaking against the Bunge Tower without having sufficient information, saying they might find themselves before the Powers and Privileges Committee.