President William Ruto has revealed how his daughter Charlene defied his orders about attending the burial of the late Chief of Defence Forces Francis Ogolla.
Addressing mourners at Ngiya village in Siaya County on Sunday during the burial of Ogolla, Ruto said he was shocked that Charlene not only attended the event but also addressed the gathering.
The Head of State recalled a conversation with his daughter on Saturday evening, during which she requested to attend the burial and give a speech.
"I told her, Charlene first there is nowhere you are going and there is no way you are going to speak anywhere. But as fate would have it, she found her way here and before I could notice she was on the microphone," Ruto stated.
Ruto further revealed that he had asked his wife, Rachel, to take a rest on Sunday since she attended a military honours and memorial service on Saturday at Ulinzi Sports Complex in Lang’ata, Nairobi.
He said Rachel insisted on attending the funeral to comfort Ogolla's family.
The President mourned Ogolla as a man who was influential to many people including his immediate family members.
In her address, Charlene recalled her conversations with Ogolla noting that he was a mentor for most young Kenyans.
She expressed her condolences to the family stating that young people have lost a mentor and a champion.
Charlene added that Ogolla’s influence was felt by those in various leadership positions and fields such as climate space, sports, health practitioners, and many more.
She said she met Ogolla once, where she experienced his kindness, genuine care, and love for young people.
“His death has hit me and my team so hard because in the fight for youth inclusion, many listen to us but few encourage, support, advise, or guide. General Ogolla was among the few," Charlene stated.
Ogolla was among the 10 officers who died in a helicopter crash on Thursday on the border between Elgeyo Marakwet and Uasin Gichu counties.
They were on a peace mission in the troubled Rift Valley region, which has been plagued by cattle rustling and banditry.
