Hundreds of Vihiga residents took to the streets to protest the attack on Vihiga senator Godfrey Osotsi in a Kisumu hotel.

Transport and businesses were paralysed along the Kisumu-Siaya-Busia road at Luanda town, and the Kisumu-Kakamega road after protestors barricaded the two highways to demand the arrest of those who assaulted their senator.

Police led by Luanda OCPD Richard Siele watched helplessly as the protestors lit a bonfire on the highway, causing a heavy traffic jam.

“We are demanding justice for our senator, Godfrey Osotsi, by having those goons who assaulted him arrested and arraigned in court,” chanted the charged protestors.

Luanda OCPD said they only provided security to ensure no property or people are harmed during the demonstrations.

“It is quite unfortunate that mistakes done by criminals somewhere in Kisumu have escalated here in Luanda Vihiga.” Yes, as police we have tried our best to maintain order during protests,” said Siele.

Siele asked the Luanda people where Senator Osotsi comes from to remain peaceful as the authority continues to pursue the matter.

Vihiga County government, through CECM finance Meshack Mulongo, condemned the attack on Osotsi.

Mulongo said it was with a heavy heart that they received the disturbing news of the attack on Godfrey Osotsi, senator for Vihiga County in Kisumu town, allegedly by a group of goons, while he was peacefully going about his personal business.

He said such an act, carried out merely on account of differing political views, is both regrettable and wholly unacceptable.

He said as a nation, we are guided by the Constitution of Kenya, 2010. Chapter Four clearly guarantees every citizen the fundamental rights and freedoms to life, dignity, equality, and association.

“We, the people of Vihiga County, express our deepest outrage, pain and strongest possible condemnation of the cowardly, barbaric and premeditated assault on our senator Godfrey Osotsi on 8th of April 2026,” said Mulongo.

Clergy condemns Osotsi’s attack

The Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) Maseno North Diocese Arch Bishop Charles Asilutwa also condemned the attack on Osotsi.

Asilutwa said no Kenyan should suffer harm or intimidation for exercising these God-given and constitutionally protected rights.

He said from a Christian perspective, we are reminded that every human being is created in the image of God and deserves respect, dignity, and protection.

He said acts of violence, intimidation, and political intolerance are not only unlawful but also contrary to the teachings of Christ, who calls people to love one another and to live in peace.

“As we approach the next general election, this incident serves as a painful reminder of the urgent need for tolerance, restraint, and respect for diverse opinions.

Democracy thrives not in uniformity of thought, but in the peaceful coexistence of differing views.

“I therefore condemn this cowardly act of violence,” said Asilutwa.

Asilutwa has called upon the Inspector General of Police to act swiftly and decisively to apprehend those responsible and ensure that justice is served without delay.

He said the immediate release and review of CCTV footage from the premises where this incident occurred is essential in bringing the perpetrators to book.

Leaders condemning the incident

He added. “On behalf of myself and the faithful of the ACK Diocese of Maseno North, where Senator Osotsi is a member, I extend our heartfelt prayers for his quick recovery and restoration to full health. May the Lord grant him strength, healing, and peace during this time.

Let us, as a nation, choose the path of peace, justice, and mutual respect.”