President William Ruto has mourned Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Francis Ogolla as a man who was influential to many people, including his daughter Charlene Ruto.

Speaking during General Ogolla's funeral service in Ng'iya, Siaya County, Ruto mentioned a conversation he had on Saturday with his daughter, during which she asked to be present at the burial and make a speech. 

Though a crafty Charlene managed to get to the podium to speak to the mourners, the Head of State informed his daughter that it would not be feasible.

"I was surprised, amazed actually that my own daughter was greatly influenced by General Ogolla. Yesterday she called me and told me that she wants to go to the funeral of General Ogolla and she wanted to speak," the President shared.


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"I told her there's no way you are going and there is no way you are speaking anywhere. As fate would have it… she found her way here and before I could notice she was on the microphone. That's how General Ogolla was influential."

To get ahead of her father and the event planners, Charlene arranged with Lorna, the daughter of General Ogolla. When it was her turn to speak, Lorna called Charlene to talk to the mourners. 

General Ogolla was a mentor and a champion to young people, and Charlene sent her condolences to the family. 

Charlene went on to say that while General Ogolla had a significant impact on many young people in the armed forces, he also had an impact on people in many different leadership roles and industries, such as sports, health care, and climate space. 


She said she had met General Ogolla once and had been struck by his genuine concern, kindness, and love for youth.

"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.

"I really don't know if we will find another like him. But as young people in his honor, we aim to live a life like his of good character, humility, and integrity."

At his Mor residence in Siaya County, the General is being laid to rest.