Political rivalry between Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi and Emuhaya constituency Member of Parliament (MP) Omboko Milemba on Saturday, November 22, 2025, turned ugly after their supporters clashed in a funeral service.

The supporters of two warring factions clashed during the burial of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) vice secretary of the Emuhaya branch, Joram Atolwa, held at Mukhombe primary school grounds in Emuhaya.

Both Osotsi and Omboko are eyeing the Vihiga gubernatorial seat in 2027, and they are trying to outsmart each other.

Trouble started when Senator Osotsi hit hard at Omboko’s development record.

Osotsi told Omboko that managing the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF) does not mean he has the vast experience to manage Vihiga County as governor.

Osotsi said he is the only eligible and the best candidate to replace Governor Wilber Ottichilo, who is serving his second and last term.

Kicks and blows

Osotsi also reminded Omboko that Vihiga is an ODM stronghold, and it will be difficult for him to sell UDA in Vihiga.

“Managing NG-CDF by Omboko Milemba does mean that he has the experience to manage Vihiga County as Governor. I’m the best replacement for outgoing governor Wilber Ottichilo,” Osotsi said before kicks and blows erupted from their supporters.

It forced Osotsi to cut short his speech to calm the worrying factions.

Omboko, on his part, said his bid to win the Vihiga governor is unstoppable.

He said his performance as Emuhaya MP is excellent, asking his supporters to fully get behind him in 3027.

“You can see what I have done with NG-CDF. I have a clean record in the management of NG-CDF, and God willing, I want you to vote for me as your next governor,” Omboko said.

Governor Ottichilo intervenes

Governor Ottichilo asked Osotsi and Omboko to conduct themselves in a peaceful manner.

He also cautioned youths in Vihiga against being misused by politicians to cause problems.

Ottichilo reminded youths that they will be used to cause problems, and yet they are the ones who will suffer.

“My sons, Senator Osotsi and Omboko, I appeal to you to go slow. Conduct yourself peacefully and you will achieve what you want,” urged Ottichilo.

Senator Osotsi also highlighted failures by President William Ruto, including the unmet promises by his government.

He raised concerns over the construction of the Luanda Market, which has stalled.

He said Luanda is an essential economic hub whose completion must be realised, as traders were moved to pave the way for construction.

He said President Ruto had assured traders that they will regain their use this coming month of December, something that is likely not to happen.

“I further called out the unfulfilled pledges to fund Emuhaya and Hamisi Sub-County Hospitals, as well as the lack of support for last-mile water connectivity. I equally reminded the government of its commitment to complete the Ekwanda Road project, which remains abandoned to the detriment of local residents,” Osotsi said.