Gachagua condemns attack on Senator Osotsi, calls for swift action and protection of democracy
By Kiprono Keileb, April 9, 2026Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has expressed deep concern over the violent attack targeting Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi in Kisumu, describing the incident as an assault on Kenya’s democratic principles. He urged authorities to act swiftly and ensure justice is served.
In a statement shared on X on Thursday, April 9, 2026, Gachagua stated that the threat posed by political violence and intimidation, emphasising that no leader should be denied their constitutional rights.
“I have received with deep concern, reports of a violent attack targeting Senator Godfrey Otsotsi, resulting in a hospital admission,” Gachagua said.
Gachagua further warned that acts of lawlessness have no place in a democratic society and called on all Kenyans to uphold the rule of law and respect political freedoms.
“Acts of political violence, intimidation, and lawlessness regardless of who is targeted have no place in our democracy. They are simply archaic. Kenya is a Constitutional Democracy governed by the rule of law. Every leader and every citizen has the right to move freely, assemble peacefully, and express their views without fear. These rights are guaranteed by our constitution,” the former Deputy President stated.
Gachagua also noted that recent incidents are not isolated, pointing to a worrying pattern of attacks aimed at silencing opposition leaders and threatening public confidence in governance.
“The disturbing events reported in Kisumu are not isolated. In recent weeks, we have seen various leaders who are opposed to this government attacked and intimidated. Such actions are intended to intimidate and silence political opposition. This is an assault to democracy and an act of cowardice,” he added.
He called on the National Police Service to conduct a thorough and immediate investigation into the attack and other related incidents, underscoring the need for accountability.
“While these claims remain matters for investigation, they point to a worrying trend of rising political intolerance that must be addressed decisively. I call upon the National Police Service to immediately launch a comprehensive investigation into the attack on Senator Osotsi and other related incidents in Kisumu and its environs,” Gachagua said.
The former Deputy President reminded political actors that persuasion, not violence, should guide engagement with the public, and sent a message of support to Senator Osotsi.
“To our political opponents, politics is a game of persuasion. If indeed you have delivered on the agenda you promised the Kenyan people, why would you be intimidated by those who have a contrary opinion? No Kenyan should feel excluded or targeted in their own country. Let us reject violence. Let us protect our democracy as enshrined in the constitution of 2010. Senator Osotsi, do not be cowed. I wish you a quick recovery and insist that the attackers must be apprehended and have their day in court for justice must not only be done but seen to be done,” he concluded.