Orengo decries the delay in arresting those who attacked Osotsi
By Kenneth Mwenda, April 9, 2026Siaya Governor James Orengo has criticised the police over what he termed as a slow response in the investigation into the attack on Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi.
In a statement posted on Thursday, April 9, 2026, Orengo said he was disappointed by the lack of progress at Kisumu Central Police Station, despite the availability of evidence.
“Deeply disappointed by the lack of progress at Kisumu Central Police Station following the targeted attack on Senator Godfrey Osotsi. Despite clear images of the attackers circulating, no arrests have been made,” Orengo said.
The governor raised concerns about possible interference in the case, suggesting that the delay may not be accidental.
“There is evident interference from higher offices. This is not politics, it is brazen thuggery,” he added.
Osotsi was attacked on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at a café in Kisumu. A group of assailants confronted him and assaulted him shortly after. CCTV footage from the scene shows the senator pinned to the floor and repeatedly beaten before staff and members of the public intervened. He was later airlifted to Nairobi for treatment.
The incident has drawn condemnation from across the political divide, with leaders calling for swift arrests and accountability.
Orengo said Parliament should step in and push for action.
“I call on both the National Assembly and the Senate to urgently demand accountability. I will be back tomorrow to follow up on the arrests,” he said.
Pressure mounts on police
Orengo’s remarks add pressure on security agencies, particularly the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), which has already launched a probe into the attack. Detectives have said they are analysing CCTV footage and pursuing leads, although they have not yet disclosed the motive.
The governor has previously described the attack as organised and politically motivated. He linked it to a pattern of intimidation targeting leaders associated with the Linda Mwananchi faction.
“This is a clearly coordinated and organised pattern of intimidation aimed at silencing the voices of the people,” Orengo had said earlier.
Other leaders have also spoken out. National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed condemned the assault and called for immediate arrests.
“Those who planned the attack, alongside those who carried it out, must be quickly arrested and arraigned in a court of law,” he said.
Former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka has also demanded action, warning that failure to arrest the suspects could lead to private prosecution.
The attack comes weeks after Osotsi was removed as ODM Deputy Party Leader during a disputed National Delegates Convention. He has since remained active in opposition politics and the Linda Mwananchi movement.