Raila Odinga pays tribute to chopper crash victims
The rescue team and members of the public stand on the shores of Lake Nakuru on October 21, 2017 after a chopper carrying five people crashed into the lake. PHOTO | AYUB MUIYURO | NATION MEDIA GROUP
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Mr Odinga, in a condolence message to family and friends of the victims, termed the crash as unfortunate even as he castigated the government for its slow response to rescue operations.
Mr Odinga singled out the aircraft pilot, Captain Malowa, whom he described as a charming and dedicated friend who took his professional work seriously.
On Sunday, splintered parts of the helicopter were found.
Nasa leader Raila Odinga on Sunday paid tribute to the five victims of the ill-fated helicopter that crashed into Lake Nakuru on Saturday.
In a condolence message to family and friends of the victims, Mr Odinga termed the crash as unfortunate even as he castigated the government for its slow response to rescue operations.
Those missing include Sam Gitau, John Mapozi, Anthony Kipyegon, a woman identified as Veronicah and the pilot, Apollo Malowa.
“On behalf of the Nasa coalition and on my own behalf, I extend sincere condolences to the families, friends and relatives of the five Kenyans who died aboard the helicopter that crashed into Lake Nakuru on Saturday morning,” said the Nasa leader.
Mr Odinga singled out the aircraft pilot, Captain Malowa, whom he described as a charming and dedicated friend who took his professional work seriously.
RECOVERY OPERATION
“I came to learn of his immense contributions to nurturing upcoming pilots, including by paying school fees for a disadvantaged student at Nyeri High School whose dream was to be a pilot. May God rest his soul in eternal peace,” he said.
His family, Mr Odinga said, was also related to that of Mr Malowa.
He added: “At this time of continuing recovery operations, I wish all the families, friends and relatives of the departed much strength and fortitude.”
On Sunday, splintered parts of the helicopter were found.
The pilot file and First Aid kits were found on the Northeastern part of the shore and near a sewage area in Lake Nakuru National Park.
The opposition leader also urged the national and county governments to invest in disaster response mechanisms in their areas of jurisdiction.
