National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya and Majority Leaders Kimani Ichung’wah and Aaron Cheruiyot are among leaders who have come out to defend the late Captain George Were against criticism on social media following the helicopter crash that claimed six lives, among them Emurua Dikirr MP Johana Ng’eno.
Speaking during the requiem mass for the victims of the crash, Wetang’ula described the late pilot as a highly trained and disciplined professional who would never have endangered the lives of his passengers. He also revealed that he had flown with Captain Were just two weeks before the crash.
“Whenever a tragedy of this nature happens in our country, it’s important for all of us to appreciate the will of God and avoid assigning blame where it’s not necessary…This was a tragic accident,” he said.
Recalling his recent flight with the pilot under challenging weather conditions, Speaker Wetang’ula said the pilot demonstrated calmness.
“At a time when the weather was not very friendly, he maneuvered with precision…He swung from one cloud to another, and we arrived safely alongside other leaders. He was a diligent and astute pilot. Accidents do happen, and sadly, this one has taken precious lives,” he added.
On his part, Cheruiyot also revealed that he had flown with the pilot before.
“I flew with Captain George a week before the accident. He was very organised and professional.”
Ng’eno, alongside Amos Kipngetich Rotich, a Kenya Forest Service officer; Nick Koskei, the MP’s bodyguard; his photographer Carlos Keter and Wycliffe Rono, an employee of the Narok County Government, will be laid to rest on Friday, March 6, 2026.
Captain George Were will be buried at a later date.
Courtesy: Speaker’s Press Unit
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