GOVERNMENT ACCUSED OVER OSOTSI ATTACK

The government has been accused of orchestrating a coordinated attack using hired goons against Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, who is currently recovering in a Nairobi hospital after the assault.

The incident has sparked a political storm, with opposition leaders linking the attack to powerful figures within government, even as investigations gather pace.

The senator was initially rushed to Aga Khan Hospital in Kisumu following the Wednesday afternoon assault before being airlifted to Nairobi for specialised treatment. He is reported to be in stable condition.

The incident unfolded at a popular café in Kisumu’s central business district, where Osotsi had stopped after a routine visit in the Acacia area. Witnesses say a group of armed men stormed the premises shortly after noon and confronted the senator.

According to accounts and CCTV footage, the attackers questioned his political stance, particularly his perceived opposition to President William Ruto’s re-election bid, before launching a sustained physical assault.

Staff and members of the public attempted to intervene but were overpowered as the group forced the legislator to the ground multiple times, leaving him with visible injuries, especially to the face.

Speaking from his hospital bed, Osotsi described the incident as a calculated attack, saying the assailants initially appeared friendly before suddenly turning violent.

The assault has drawn sharp reactions from opposition leaders, with Kalonzo Musyoka leading calls for accountability.

Speaking in Nairobi, Kalonzo alleged that the attack was politically instigated and directly linked it to individuals within government. He singled out Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, demanding his immediate resignation.

“There is no reason why those who attacked Osotsi have not been apprehended. If they are not arrested, we will pursue private prosecution,” Kalonzo said.

Other leaders echoed similar concerns. Siaya Governor James Orengo described the attack as part of a broader pattern of intimidation targeting dissenting voices, while Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna said the incident reflects shrinking democratic space.

Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo termed the assault an attempted murder and challenged security agencies to act decisively. Saboti MP Caleb Amisi urged the President to ensure order within his administration.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has since launched a full probe into the incident, relying on CCTV footage and public tips.

DCI Director Mohamed Amin confirmed that three suspects have been arrested: Carlos Owiti (24), alias Kalonje, from Nyalenda; Eric Otieno (39), alias Dude, from Manyatta; and Vincent Odhiambo (27), alias Tinga, also from Nyalenda.

Authorities say the suspects are in custody awaiting arraignment, with more arrests expected as investigations continue. One of those detained was reportedly captured on CCTV assaulting the senator.

The agency has urged the public to remain calm and avoid speculation, assuring that investigations will be thorough and impartial.

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) condemned the attack, terming it a serious threat to democratic values. In a statement, party leader Oburu Odinga described the assault as unacceptable and called for swift justice.

The incident has also sparked outrage among Kenyans, with some questioning whether the attackers were acting on instructions from powerful figures. Embakasi East MP Babu Owino is among those who have publicly linked the attack to senior security official.

The attack comes at a time of heightened political tension within the opposition. Osotsi, aligned with the Linda Wananchi faction within ODM, had recently been removed from his position as deputy party leader after criticising the party’s direction ahead of the 2027 General Election.

He had also been mobilising support for an upcoming political rally in Nakuru prior to the attack.

The incident follows another recent scare involving the senator, who survived a plane landing problem at Wilson Airport just weeks earlier.
As investigations continue, attention now shifts to whether authorities will act swiftly enough to address growing concerns over political intolerance and the safety of public officials.