Kalonzo questions report on helicopter crash that killed CDF Ogolla

Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has questioned the government’s official account detailing the events surrounding the death of the late Chief of Defence Forces, General Francis Ogolla, urging a more in-depth investigation.

While addressing congregants at Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Mwingi Town, Kitui County, on Sunday, Kalonzo emphasized the need for a comprehensive probe led by Parliament to uncover additional details.

His remarks come in response to a government report that outlined the cause of the helicopter crash that resulted in General Ogolla’s death on April 18, 2024.

"What has happened is whitewashing the situation. No Kenyan will believe that story; the only way to believe the story is through an independent inquiry. General Ogolla was taken out," said Kalonzo.

Kalonzo expressed skepticism over the recent investigation findings released by the Kenya Defence Forces, which attributed the helicopter crash to an engine malfunction.

The report stated that the aircraft experienced engine failure while in flight, leading to total loss of power.

"For Kenyans to know what exactly happened. We need an independent inquiry, possibly led by Parliament.We cant have a culture where military leaders, political leaders are taken out. These helicopter crashes must end," he added.

A Defence Ministry report released on Friday revealed that the helicopter that crashed and killed General Ogolla had been dependable and had performed well in earlier missions.

The Bell UH-1H-II (Huey) Helicopter, known as KAF 1501, had been used in different military activities, including transporting top officials and carrying out training exercises.

According to the report, "the Huey Helicopter KAF 1501 was assessed to have had a relatively high level of reliability, having conducted several operational and training missions, including VIP flights."

Military officials said the aircraft was being flown by well-trained crew at the time of the crash.