National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula has come to the defense of Captain George Were, the pilot involved in the Nandi helicopter crash that claimed six lives, including Emurua Dikirr MP Hon. Johana Ng’eno.
During a joint memorial service for the victims at African Gospel Church (AGC) in Karen, Nairobi, Wetangula characterized Captain Were as a “highly trained and disciplined professional” who would never intentionally endanger lives.
“Whenever a tragedy of this magnitude occurs in our nation, it is essential for all of us to accept God’s will and avoid placing blame where it doesn’t belong,” he stated.
“I have no doubt that the pilot was a highly skilled aviator who would never have risked his own life or others. This was a devastating accident.”
Recalling a flight he took with Captain Were just two weeks before the crash, Speaker Wetangula commended the pilot’s expertise during challenging weather conditions.
“At a time when the weather was not favorable, he navigated with precision and expertise. He maneuvered between clouds, and we arrived safely with other leaders. He was a diligent and sharp pilot. Accidents do happen, and unfortunately, this one has taken precious lives,” he added.
The Speaker called upon the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) to enhance airspace regulations, particularly during adverse weather, and to conduct a thorough examination of the wreckage to identify lessons that could prevent future incidents.
His remarks were supported by leaders who had previously flown with Captain Were. Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya expressed, “The military family is grieving. We have lost an experienced and dedicated officer.”
Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot remarked, “I flew with Captain George a week before the accident. He was extremely organized and professional.”
Speaker Wetangula also honored other victims, including Carlos Keter, a recently hired teacher from Emurua Dikirr, and the late Ng’eno, acknowledging the MP’s dedication to the Affordable Housing program and his constituents.
“To the people he served, you have lost a genuine leader. He understood the local dynamics of this region and was deeply connected to his community,” the Speaker said.
The victimsJohana 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 occur at a later date.