- George Saitoti, a former vice president, served as the internal security minister
- The crash also killed his deputy, bodyguards and a pilot
- The accident took place in the Ngong hills, on the outskirts of the Kenyan capital
Nairobi, Kenya (CNN) -- A helicopter crash killed the Kenyan internal security minister, his deputy and several others near the capital of Nairobi on Sunday, a government official said.
Security minister George Saitoti -- a former vice president -- was among presidential contenders in the nation's upcoming elections.
The crash also claimed the life of his deputy, Orwa Ojode, and several others, including bodyguards and pilots. The exact number of people in the helicopter was unclear.
"It's a sad day for Kenya," said Najib Balala, a Cabinet minister. "We could have avoided this accident with better equipment."
Balala blamed the crash on old helicopters used by government officials.
Saitoti -- a veteran politician in the East African nation -- has served in various positions, including minister of education.
The crash occurred in the Ngong Hills on the outskirts of Nairobi.
