National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed has strongly condemned the assault on Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, calling for the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible.
In a statement issued following the incident in Kisumu, Junet described the attack as shameful and urged law enforcement agencies to act swiftly to ensure justice is served.
“I condemn the dastardly assault on Vihiga County Senator Hon. Godfrey Osotsi in Kisumu,” Junet said. “Those who planned the attack, alongside those who carried it out, must be quickly arrested and arraigned in a court of law.”
The attack on the senator has sparked concern among political leaders. While details surrounding the circumstances of the assault remain limited, the incident has raised questions about the safety of public officials and the broader state of political tolerance in the country.
Junet emphasised that political differences should never escalate into violence, warning against actions that undermine democratic principles.
“There’s no place for violence in our nation regardless of the political persuasions leaders may subscribe to in exercise of their democratic right to participate in national politics,” he stated.
The Minority Leader’s remarks add to a chorus of condemnation from leaders across the political divide, reflecting the seriousness of the incident and its potential implications for national cohesion.
Osotsi, who represents Vihiga County in the Senate, was reportedly attacked earlier in the day while in Kisumu.He is currently receiving medical attention, though officials have yet to provide comprehensive details on the extent of his injuries.
Junet extended his well-wishes to the injured legislator, expressing hope for his quick recovery and return to duty. “I wish Sen. Osotsi speedy recovery and return to his normal activities,” he said.
According to the Senator’s aide, he was on a routine visit to Acacia for personal grooming (to take a shave) before proceeding to Java restaurant, where he met a friend and interacted cordially with members of the public for about 30 minutes.
It was during this time that a group of gun-wielding individuals confronted him, questioning his political stance and subsequently subjecting him to physical manhandling.
They demanded to know why he is supporting one-term and not two-term. The senator's security detail that was present is said to have exercised restraint to avoid discharging firearms in a public setting, which could have resulted in grave harm to innocent civilians.
Osotsi, who represents Vihiga County in the Senate, is a member of the Linda Mwanachi faction of ODM led by among other Sifuna and Siaya Senator James Orengo.
He was recently dropped from the ODM Deputy Party leader position following his alignment with the side.
