A push for accountability over the assault on Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi in Kisumu has intensified after Siaya Governor James Orengo called on police to go beyond the arrested suspects and focus on those who planned and financed the attack.
Speaking in Kisumu on Saturday, April 11, 2026, James Orengo said the investigation should not stop at the three suspects already in custody, insisting that those behind the coordination of the violence must also be identified and prosecuted.
Orengo said he had personally reported the matter to police shortly after the incident and later visited the station two days after to follow up on the progress of investigations.
He noted that there had been early doubts over how quickly law enforcement would act, but welcomed the arrests made so far while stressing that the case was far from complete.
The governor said justice would only be achieved if all individuals involved in the attack, including planners and financiers, were brought before the law.
He further pointed to a suspected mastermind, describing him as a well-known figure believed to have directed the group behind the assault, and urged police to move quickly to arrest him.
Orengo warned that failure to apprehend the alleged organiser would encourage organised criminal activity and weaken efforts to deal with gang-related violence.
“We urge the police that in order to deal with the problem of gangsterism and thuggery, the suspected mastermind must be arrested and prosecuted,” Orengo said.
Godfrey Osotsi was attacked at a Kisumu restaurant in an incident that has since raised concern over the safety of public leaders and triggered political reactions.
Orengo also raised concern over possible links between some suspects and individuals in authority, alleging that a senior government official had been seen taking photographs with persons connected to the attack.
He said such claims must be fully investigated, warning against any attempt to shield individuals from accountability regardless of their position.
At the same time, he defended Kisumu’s reputation, saying the incident should not be used to portray the city negatively.
He maintained that Kenya guarantees freedom of movement, adding that every citizen has the right to travel and operate anywhere in the country without fear.
Orengo dismissed claims linking the attack to ethnic tensions, saying the incident was being misinterpreted and risked creating unnecessary divisions.
He emphasized long-standing ties between the Luhya and Luo communities, noting their social and political relations, including intermarriage and cooperation.
He added that the Luhya community remains part of the Orange Democratic Movement support base, warning against narratives meant to divide communities.
Looking ahead, Orengo confirmed that political engagements would continue, with the next rally set for Nakuru on April 19, 2026, and additional venues expected to be announced later.
He said the campaign activities would build toward larger political gatherings in Nairobi and Kisumu as leaders continue engaging the public ahead of elections.
The governor concluded by paying tribute to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, praising his role in promoting unity, devolution, and constitutional reforms, saying leaders would continue advancing those ideals.
