The Truth Behind Kenya's Disputed Presidential Election of 2022 Finally Comes Out: The Bomas Controversy and General Francis Ogolla's Legacy

In the wake of Kenya's disputed presidential election of 2022, the events that transpired at the Bomas of Kenya have resurfaced, shedding light on the truth behind the controversy that ensued. As the nation mourns the loss of CDF General Francis Ogolla, a pivotal figure in the unfolding of those events, it becomes imperative to unravel the layers of political manipulation and personal vendettas that have clouded his legacy.

Today's Saturday Standard's headline story on page 2 meticulously details the sequence of events at Bomas, where the National Security Advisory Committee (NSAC) convened to meet with IEBC Chair Wafula Chebukati. Amidst the political turbulence, an SMS emerged as a lifeline, preserving General Ogolla's life amidst the chaos. The SMS, sent by Lieutenant General Ogolla, then VCDF, to then Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Robert Kibochi, encapsulated the essence of the situation at Bomas, affirming that the issue at hand was more about politics than security.

However, what unfolds in the narrative is a chilling revelation of President William Ruto's penchant for twisting facts to suit his political agenda. Despite General Ogolla's unequivocal dedication to national security and his dutiful adherence to instructions, President Ruto chose to vilify him, weaving a false narrative of subversion and deceit. This distortion of truth not only tarnishes General Ogolla's reputation but also undermines the integrity of the Kenyan professionals who strive to uphold the nation's values amidst political turmoil.

According to that story, before President William made the decision to appoint a CDF, he summoned then Vice CDF Lt Gen Francis Ogolla to grill him on the role he played on the day the NSAC went to Bomas to meet Chebukati. Quoth The Standard:

"General Ogolla told the President, 'On arrival we met Chebukati, but PAS Kennedy Kihara delved into politics and started saying that IEBC needed to kneel to the results. I immediately sent a text to Gen Kibochi saying, "Sir, this is not about security but about politics. That text I have, and it is here.'"

From this story, it is clear that Lt Gen Ogolla, who was then VCDF, was following the orders of his boss, CDF Gen Robert Kibochi, to accompany the NSAC to Bomas, in the interest of national security, but when it became clear there was no security threat to the outcome of the general election, and based on his assessment, Ogolla did not hesitate to relay that information back to his superior, in no uncertain terms.

For President William Ruto to now twist this event to fit his own political narrative is not only insensitive to the family of the departed General, but also insulting to the larger community of Kenyan professionals who have to endure the shame of being dragged into petty politics and answering for things they know nothing about, all in the name of maintaining a saviour mentality by people who have neither sense of occasion nor personal shame.

President Ruto's curious affinity for fabrications and manipulation of facts comes to the fore, particularly in light of his Defense CS Aden Duale's ominous promise to "deal" with General Ogolla. The President's calculated attempts to cast aspersions on General Ogolla's character reveal a deeper agenda rooted in personal vendettas and political expediency.

As Kenya commemorates General Ogolla's legacy during the official three days of mourning, it is imperative to reflect on his unwavering commitment to truth and integrity. General Ogolla's actions at Bomas exemplify the courage of conviction and the unwavering dedication to duty that define a true patriot. His legacy serves as a beacon of hope amidst the murky waters of political deceit and manipulation.

In honouring General Ogolla's memory, let us not succumb to the politics of distortion and falsehood. Instead, let us uphold his legacy by standing firm in our pursuit of truth, justice, and integrity. As the nation bids farewell to a hero, may General Francis Ogolla's spirit continue to inspire future generations to uphold the values that define the essence of our nation.