Godfrey Osotsi, the Vihiga Senator and former ODM deputy party leader, has been airlifted to Nairobi for specialised medical care following a violent morning attack by suspected goons in Kisumu.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, April 8, at Kisumu International Airport, James Orengo confirmed that the attackers assaulted Osotsi at a Kisumu hotel, robbing him of his phones and valuables before leaving him with serious injuries.
“He is very badly injured. When I got to the hospital, I could not recognise him,” Orengo said, terming the incident a calculated political attack. He alleged that security agencies were aware of the plot, describing it as “well planned.”
Orengo further accused the police in Kisumu of complicity, claiming they failed to act despite prior similar incidents targeting leaders perceived to be critical of the government.
“This is the second time such an attack is happening in Kisumu. Previously, we were attacked at a hotel before police intervened with teargas. The pattern is clear,” he added.
The Siaya governor alleged the existence of organised criminal networks operating with impunity, warning that continued inaction risks plunging the region into lawlessness.
Despite the attack, Orengo said Osotsi remains defiant and committed to his political stance, adding that the planned “Linda Mwananchi” tour will proceed, with the next stop scheduled for Nakuru.
Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathew Owili condemned the incident, describing it as a cowardly and criminal act. He called on the National Police Service to swiftly investigate and bring those responsible to justice.
“We express our unequivocal condemnation of this heinous act. There must be no room for impunity,” Owili said, affirming the county’s commitment to safeguarding peace and political tolerance.
He warned that any individuals or groups seeking to undermine stability through violence would face the full force of the law.
