UDA postpones party elections in Nyanza following General Ogolla's death

United Democratic Alliance (UDA) members and officials in Nyanza have suspended their ongoing campaigns in light of the tragic passing of Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Francis Ogolla.

Kennedy Obuya, the interim chairman for UDA in Homa Bay, expressed this decision as a gesture of respect towards Ogolla and to allow time for the community to mourn.

Obuya further stated that they are reaching out to the UDA's national office, specifically the National Elections Board, to discuss postponing the party's upcoming elections scheduled for this month.

Kennedy Ondiek, UDA's coordinator for South Nyanza, acknowledged the sombre atmosphere cast by Ogolla's loss and that of other servicemen.

He urged for calm as the government conducts investigations into the circumstances surrounding the CDF's passing.

Ogolla, alongside nine other military personnel, died in a helicopter crash on Thursday at the Sindar area in Elgeyo Marakwet County at around 2:20pm.

President William Ruto subsequently announced three days of national mourning following the CDF's death.

On Thursday, Ogolla's family announced that the late General will be laid to rest at his family home in Mor, Alego Usonga, Siaya County on Sunday, April 21, 2024.

Speaking to Citizen Digital, the family revealed that the late General Ogolla had outlined in his Will that, upon his demise, he be laid to rest within 72 hours.

The burial will be preceded by a memorial service at his local church in Nduru.

"Additionally, a Memorial Service will be held on Friday, April 26th, 2024, at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Langata, where he found solace in his biweekly runs," Ogolla's family said.