National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has defended the late Captain George Were against criticism on social media following the Nandi helicopter crash that killed six people, including Johana Ng’eno.
Speaking during a joint memorial service at African Gospel Church (AGC) in Karen on Wednesday, Wetang’ula described the deceased pilot as a highly trained and disciplined professional who would never have endangered the lives of his passengers.
“Whenever a tragedy of this nature happens in our country, it is important for all of us to appreciate the will of God and avoid assigning blame where it is not necessary. I have no doubt that the pilot was a highly skilled airman who would never have endangered his own life or that of others. This was a tragic accident,” Wetang’ula said.
The Speaker revealed that he had flown with Captain Were just two weeks before the crash and had full confidence in his competence.
Recalling the flight, he said the pilot demonstrated exceptional skill under challenging weather conditions.
“At a time when the weather was not very friendly, he manoeuvred with precision and proficiency. 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.
Wetang’ula reiterated his call to the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority to strengthen regulations governing the use of airspace, particularly during adverse weather, to enhance safety and prevent similar tragedies.
“We hope that the aviation authorities will carefully examine the aircraft and its remains to determine whether there are mechanical lessons that can help prevent such incidents in the future,” he emphasised.
His sentiments were echoed by leaders present at the memorial service, among them Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya and Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot, who had previously flown with Captain Were and attested to his professionalism.
“The military family is mourning. We have lost an experienced and diligent officer,” Tuya said.
Cheruiyot added: “I flew with Captain George a week before the accident. He was very organised and professional.”
Wetang’ula also paid tribute to Carlos Keter, a recently employed high school teacher from Emurua Dikirr, recalling a recent meeting with him at his office at Parliament Buildings.
He described Keter as a determined young man whose life had been cut short at the start of his career.
In his capacity as Chairperson of the Parliamentary Service Commission, the Speaker commended the parliamentary team tasked with coordinating funeral arrangements.
He noted that, following his directive, the Clerk of the National Assembly facilitated the repatriation of the bodies to Lee Funeral Home.
While celebrating Ng’eno’s life, Wetang’ula praised the three-term legislator for his advocacy of the Affordable Housing programme and his commitment to constituents.
“To the people he served, you have lost a true leader. As we often say, all politics is local. He understood the local politics of this area and was deeply connected to his people,” he said.
Ng’eno and four other victims will be laid to rest on Friday, March 6, 2026, in their respective homes, while Captain Were will be buried at a later date.
