General Francis Ogolla’s burial will take place on Sunday, adhering to his wish to be interred within 72 hours of his death. The decision was reached in agreement with military authorities and the state. His elder brother, Canon Hezekiah Oduor, shared that the burial will be a simple affair, as per General Ogolla’s desire for a swift and straightforward interment.
According to Canon Oduor, General Ogolla had already specified the spot behind his house in Mor village, Siaya County, where he wished to be buried. He envisioned a burial similar to Muslim practices, with his body wrapped in sheets. Despite its simplicity, the burial will still include observance of Luo rituals.
The family has extended an invitation to anyone wishing to mourn with them, ensuring that there will be enough food for all visitors.
General Ogolla’s death occurred alongside that of nine other military officers in a helicopter crash in Elgeyo Marakwet County. His family has chosen Sunday for his burial, with a memorial service to be held at his local church in Nduru preceding the burial.
The state has taken over the burial arrangements, as General Ogolla died while in office. Military officers have been dispatched to Alego to prepare for the burial, and he will receive a 19-gun salute.
President William Ruto will lead the nation, the government, and the military in bidding farewell to General Ogolla. The other military officers who died alongside him will also be honored. Their bodies were airlifted to Nairobi and received at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, where a prayer service was held.
General Ogolla’s family emphasized that despite his sudden death, he was prepared for it. His sister, Peris Onyango, recalled his discussions about how his burial should be conducted, underscoring his acceptance of the reality of death.
The family intends to proceed with the 100th birthday celebrations of their father, Mzee Joel Oyeyo, on Saturday, as planned. Additionally, they announced a memorial service for General Ogolla to be held the following Friday at Ulinzi Sports Complex in Lang’ata.
Various leaders, including Raila Odinga and Kalonzo Musyoka, have visited General Ogolla’s family to offer condolences. President Ruto mourned Ogolla’s passing and declared a three-day national mourning period starting Friday. During this period, flags will fly at half-mast in honor of the fallen General.
