The scheduled opening of the Ksh.9.6 billion Bunge Tower, which was initially planned for Friday, April 19th, has been delayed until next week.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula made the announcement on Thursday night, citing the tragic death of Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Francis Ogolla as the reason for the postponement.
General Ogolla, along with nine other military personnel, lost their lives in a helicopter crash on Thursday at Sindar area in Elgeyo Marakwet County.
In his statement, Speaker Wetangula, who also chairs the Parliamentary Service Commission, revealed that the launch, which was supposed to be officiated by President William Ruto, will now take place on Thursday, April 25, starting at 9 am.
“As you are aware, tomorrow, Friday, April 24, 2024, President William Ruto was scheduled to officially open the Bunge Tower. However, this evening, in his address to the Nation, His Excellency the President announced the unfortunate and untimely demise of General Francis Ogolla, the CDF, who died in a helicopter crash alongside nine other gallant officers this afternoon,” Wetangula stated in a letter to MPs.
“Following the tragic event, the President has announced three days of national mourning. In view of the foregoing, this is to notify you that the official opening Ceremony of the Bunge Tower that was scheduled to take place tomorrow has been postponed.”
“The official opening ceremony has been rescheduled and shall now be held next week, Thursday, 25th April 2024 from 9.00 am,” he added.