Vihiga county leaders addressing the press over the attack on the Senator by goons at Kisumu recently…Photo/CG
By Alex Wekesa
Leaders from Vihiga County have strongly condemned the violent assault on Senator Godfrey Osotsi, terming the incident a “cowardly and premeditated attack” and a serious threat to constitutional freedoms in Kenya.
In a joint statement issued a day after the incident, the leaders, led by County Executive Committee Member for Finance, Hon. Meshack Onzere Mulongo, expressed outrage over the attack that occurred in Kisumu County on April 8, 2026.
“We, the people of Vihiga County, express our deepest outrage, pain, and strongest condemnation of the cowardly and premeditated assault on our Senator,” the statement read.
The leaders described the attack as not only an assault on an individual but also a violation of the dignity, unity, and constitutional rights of Kenyans.
“This heinous and senseless act is not merely an attack on one individual; it is a direct assault on the dignity, unity, and constitutional rights of the people of Vihiga County and the Republic of Kenya as a whole,” they stated.
Senator Osotsi was reportedly attacked by a group of armed individuals in Kisumu town, allegedly over his political stance.
He was later airlifted to Nairobi for treatment and is currently receiving medical care.
The Vihiga leaders warned of a growing trend of political intolerance and violence, cautioning that such incidents could undermine national cohesion and destabilize the country ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“We condemn in the strongest terms possible the rising tide of political intolerance, organized violence, and goonism. Such acts are unlawful, regressive, and inconsistent with the Constitution of Kenya, 2010,” the statement added.
They further expressed concern over what they termed as a “coordinated and premeditated” attack aimed at intimidating leaders with divergent political views.
Calling for immediate action, the leaders urged the National Police Service to conduct thorough investigations, including reviewing CCTV footage from the scene, and to ensure that all those involved—both perpetrators and planners—are arrested and prosecuted.
“We demand swift and decisive action. Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done,” they said.
The leaders also called on security agencies to guarantee the safety of all leaders and citizens, regardless of their political affiliations, emphasizing that no Kenyan should face violence for expressing their views.
At the same time, they cautioned against misinformation and attempts to politicize the incident, insisting that the focus must remain on accountability and justice.
“We will not be distracted by propaganda or efforts to conceal the truth. The people of Vihiga demand accountability, transparency, and justice,” the statement read.
Even as they condemned the attack, the leaders urged residents of Vihiga to remain calm and avoid retaliatory actions that could escalate tensions.
“We call for calm and restraint. Let us not be provoked into actions that may deepen divisions or undermine peace,” they added.
The leaders also conveyed their solidarity with Senator Osotsi, wishing him a quick recovery and reaffirming their support.
“Intimidation will not silence us. Violence will not deter us. The rule of law must prevail,” the statement concluded.
