Ex-CJ Willy Mutunga joins calls for public inquiry into military helicopter crash

Former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga has joined calls to have the helicopter accident that killed Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Francis Ogolla and other military officers thoroughly investigated.

Mutunga called for the formation of a public commission of inquiry to help Kenyans understand what happened and avert ongoing speculations.

"Given the tragedy that engulfs our country now, a country of rumours and ethnic divisions, it is a good idea to immediately set up a Commission of Inquiry that has robust public participation," said Mutunga.

Speaking to Eastleigh Voice, Mutunga said that an Inquiry that is seen as a cover-up is unacceptable.

"My suggestion is clear enough. Participation by the people means that the commission will be chosen by the people," said Mutunga.

He went on to add that the commission must be chosen by the people and not the president.

"Guidelines for the qualification to be in the commission can be drawn," he explained.

His sentiments were echoed by Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang' who wondered how a senior military officer of Ogolla's calibre was being sent to inspect the construction of classrooms.

"We are demanding an exhaustive investigation into the military chopper crash so that we understand what happened," said Kajwang'.

The calls to have the accident probed and the report made public have also been made by the Azimio La Umoja Coalition led by Raila Odinga.

The opposition outfit on Friday wondered why Ogolla was accorded the work of inspection of classrooms, which his juniors would easily undertake.

They also called for a probe into other military accidents in the past to ascertain the worthiness of military aircraft in the country.