By Courtesy of the National Assembly Press Unit
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has defended Captain George Were, the pilot of the helicopter that crashed in Nandi, killing six people, including Emurua Dikirr MP Hon. Johana Ng’eno.
Speaking at a joint memorial service for the victims at African Gospel Church (AGC) in Karen, Nairobi, Wetang’ula described Captain Were as a “highly trained and disciplined professional” who would never have intentionally endangered lives.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
Recalling a flight he took with Captain Were just two weeks before the crash, Speaker Wetang’ula praised the pilot’s 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.
The Speaker urged the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) to strengthen airspace regulations, particularly during adverse weather, and to conduct a thorough investigation of the wreckage to identify lessons that could prevent future accidents.
His sentiments were echoed by leaders who had previously flown with Captain Were. Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya said, “The military family is mourning. We have lost an experienced and diligent officer.”
Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot added, “I flew with Captain George a week before the accident. He was very organized and professional.”
Speaker Wetang’ula also paid tribute to other victims, including Carlos Keter, a newly employed teacher from Emurua Dikirr, and the late Ng’eno, praising the MP’s commitment to the Affordable Housing programme and the people of Emurua Dikirr.
“To the people he served, you have lost a true leader. He understood the local politics of this area and was deeply connected to his people,” the Speaker said.
The victims—Johana Ng’eno, Amos Kipngetich Rotich (Kenya Forest Service), Nick Koskei (bodyguard), Carlos Keter (photographer), and Wycliffe Rono (Narok County Government employee)—will be laid to rest on Friday, March 6, 2026. Captain George Were’s burial will be held at a later date.
