Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has publicly expressed skepticism regarding the government’s official explanation for the death of General Francis Ogolla, the former Chief of Defence Forces, who died in a helicopter crash in April 2024.
Kalonzo is calling for an independent parliamentary inquiry into the incident, suggesting he suspects foul play.
Speaking at a church service in Mwingi Town, Kitui County on April 13, 2025, Musyoka stated that the Ministry of Defence’s (MoD) report, which attributed the crash to an engine malfunction, was insufficient and lacked credibility.
Here are 4 key reasons why Kalonzo Musyoka believes General Ogolla’s death warrants further investigation:
1. Lack of Credibility in Official Explanation
Kalonzo stated that the MoD’s report was a “whitewashing of that situation” and that “no one will believe that story unless there is an independent inquiry into his death.”
He implies that the official explanation is a cover-up.
2. Concerns Over Increasing Military Aircraft Accidents
Kalonzo expressed alarm over the “increasing number of fatal military aircraft accidents” and called for Parliament to spearhead an investigation into the matter, suggesting a pattern of negligence or other underlying issues.
3. Alleged Political Involvement and Threats
Kalonzo hinted at possible foul play, alluding to General Ogolla’s involvement in the last general election on behalf of the National Security Council.
He claimed that “there are some people who had threatened that they would deal with this guy later,” suggesting a political motive.
4. Suspicion of Elimination Due to Military Ambition
Kalonzo asserted that “there was no way General Ogolla was not going to become the next head of our military—and that is why he was taken out.”
This statement directly accuses unnamed individuals of eliminating General Ogolla to prevent his rise in the military hierarchy.
Kalonzo’s sentiments were echoed by Matungulu MP Stephen Mule, who also called for transparency and accountability in matters of national security and military leadership.
The MoD’s report, released on April 11, 2025, concluded that the helicopter crash was caused by an engine malfunction.
The report detailed the flight’s trajectory, the crash site, and the findings of the Board of Inquiry (BOI).
Despite this official explanation, Musyoka’s public statements indicate a strong belief that further investigation is necessary.
