7 Kenyan Politicians Who Tragically Died in Plane Crashes

Over the years, Kenya has mourned the loss of several of its leaders in tragic aviation accidents. From cabinet ministers to influential Members of Parliament, these fatal incidents have shocked the nation and left lasting sorrow in their communities.

Below is a look at some of the most notable Kenyan politicians who lost their lives in plane and helicopter crashes.

1. George Saitoti

On June 10, 2012, Kenya’s Internal Security Minister George Saitoti died in a helicopter crash in Ngong Forest while en route to a security meeting in Homa Bay. All six people on board perished, and the nation observed three days of mourning in his honour.

2. Orwa Ojode

Assistant Minister to Saitoti, Orwa Ojode, was also on the ill-fated flight. The Member of Parliament and businessman died alongside Saitoti in the 2012 crash, leaving his supporters shocked and grieving.

3. Lorna Laboso

On June 10, 2008, MP Lorna Laboso died when the plane she was travelling in crashed into a building near Kajong’a Market in Narok District. Laboso had recently been elected to Parliament and served briefly as an Assistant Minister before her sudden death.

4. Bonaya Godana

Dr. Bonaya Godana, a Cabinet Minister, was among 13 people killed in a Kenya Air Force plane crash near Marsabit on April 10, 2006. The delegation was on a peace mission to the Ethiopian border when the accident occurred.

5. Kipkalya Kones

Also killed in the June 10, 2008, crash was Roads Minister Kipkalya Kones. The aircraft went down near Enoosupukia Forest in Narok District, claiming the lives of Kones, Laboso, and others aboard.

6. General Francis Ogolla

In 2024, General Francis Ogolla, the Chief of the Defence Forces, perished in a military helicopter crash during an official assignment in Elgeyo Marakwet County. His death marked one of the most significant losses in Kenya’s military leadership in recent years.

7. Johana Ng’eno (2026)

In one of the most recent tragedies, Johana Ng’eno, the Member of Parliament for Emurua Dikirr Constituency, died in a helicopter crash on February 28, 2026, in Mosop, Nandi County. The helicopter – registered 5Y-DSB – went down and burst into flames shortly after attempting an emergency landing amidst bad weather, killing all six people on board, including Ng’eno. Authorities confirmed the crash occurred around 4:45 pm as the chopper battled mist and rain before coming down in a forested area.

Ng’eno, serving his third term in Parliament, was remembered by national leaders as a dedicated public servant. President William Ruto described the late MP as a “progressive and fearless leader” committed to justice and community development.