'He prepared us for his death for a long time,' General Ogolla's son says

The late Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Francis Ogolla's son Joel Rabuku Omondi on Friday stunned mourners as he paid tribute to his father with his frigid display of strength at a time full of emotions.

Rabuku, who took to the podium to welcome State officials led by President William Ruto consoling with his family at their Riverside home, boldly appealed to mourners not to be sad but to celebrate even in his father's demise.

In a hearty message, Rabuku remembered General Ogolla as a jolly and light-hearted person who would be astounded by their display of gloomy faces and low spirits even at his death.

He instead revealed that the General had always prepared the family for his death, thus urging mourners to be joyous since his dad was a fun and cheerful person who would not want to see people sad.

"I am seeing very many sad faces but General would just be wondering what people are sad about, especially since he has prepared us for this day for a long time, and you guys should look a bit happier because we as a family are leaning on his faith, on our faith, and that of Jesus Christ which was his cornerstone for everything," Rabuku said.

The courageous Rabuku went on to remember his father as a cheeky person, especially during times when he was in the company of his sister Peris.

Rabuku lightly told mourners that even in his death, General Ogolla is still wearing a smile as he looks down on them, which comforts the family.

"General is in a good place. I got to see him yesterday and today as I was going to get his belongings. Those of you who know General and his sister Peris, they had a cheeky smile and I can tell you that he is resting right now with a cheeky smile on his face...msivurute sura sana na yeye in death anashangaa what is the issue. It is going to be well for us," he stated.

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