Political leaders in Kisumu County and beyond are calling for immediate action following the brutal early-morning attack on Godfrey Osotsi, who was ambushed at the Java House outlet inside Western Mall.
Witnesses described the incident as a well-coordinated assault by armed assailants, leaving the senator injured and causing panic among shoppers and staff.
Osotsi was first treated at Aga Khan Hospital before being airlifted to Nairobi today via Kisumu International Airport for specialised medical care.
Authorities have confirmed that his condition is being closely monitored, and he is receiving advanced treatment for the injuries sustained during the attack.
The brazen assault has ignited outrage among political leaders and civic groups, with calls for swift and decisive action against the perpetrators.
Siaya Governor James Orengo described the attack as “despicable, cowardly, and politically motivated”, warning that such violence threatens the democratic principles and peace of the region.
Orengo demanded that law enforcement immediately review CCTV footage from Java House and apprehend those responsible.
He further stated, “Organising this hit in the heart of Kisumu is a primitive and desperate attempt to sow tribal discord between the Luo and Luhya communities. The perpetrators will not succeed.”
In Kisumu, Deputy Governor Mathews Owili speaking on behalf of Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, condemned the act as “criminal, cowardly, and utterly unacceptable.”
Owili emphasised that violence of this nature threatens not only individual leaders but also the broader fabric of society.
“This attack is not just on a leader; it is an attack on civility, tolerance, and democratic values that define Kisumu,” he said.
He called on the police and other security agencies to act swiftly and decisively, warning that there will be no room for impunity.
The attack on Osotsi is the latest in a string of politically motivated incidents, coming just days after a violent assault at the Grand Royal Swiss Hotel ahead of the Kakamega Rally.
Leaders say these attacks appear to be part of a coordinated effort to intimidate and silence voices advocating for the people, particularly those aligned with the Linda Mwananchi movement led by Osotsi.
Both Orengo and Owili stressed that political differences must never justify violence intimidation, or lawlessness.
They urged citizens to remain calm and patient while investigations proceed, emphasizing that those responsible must face justice to preserve peace and uphold the rule of law.
The county government expressed solidarity with Osotsi, wishing him a swift and full recovery.
Meanwhile, leaders and civic organisations are watching closely, vowing that attempts to destabilise peace through violence will not succeed and that democratic freedoms and safety of leaders will be protected at all costs.
As Kisumu grapples with this shocking assault, the message from leadership is clear: the perpetrators of political violence will be brought to justice, and the voices of the people cannot be silenced.
