By Joshua Otieno | April 9, 2026
LUANDA, VIHIGA COUNTY — Protests erupted across Vihiga County early Thursday morning as angry residents took to the streets demanding justice following the assault on Godfrey Osotsi.
The demonstrations, which began at dawn, were concentrated along the busy Kisumu–Busia highway, bringing traffic between Kisumu and Busia to a complete standstill for several hours.
Protesters in Luanda town barricaded the road using burning tyres and stones, forcing long-distance trucks and public service vehicles to divert to alternative routes.
Demonstrators marched while chanting slogans against political violence, calling for swift action against those responsible for the attack.
“Those behind this attack must be arrested immediately.”
Anti-riot police were deployed to the area and used tear gas to disperse the crowds and restore normal traffic flow.
The protests were triggered by a violent incident that occurred on Wednesday, April 8, at Java House, West End Mall in Kisumu, where Senator Osotsi was attacked by a group of individuals.
According to reports, the senator had visited a barbershop before meeting a friend at the café when he was confronted by assailants who questioned his political stance.
He sustained serious injuries and was later airlifted to Nairobi for specialized treatment.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations has since launched investigations, including forensic analysis of CCTV footage from the scene, in a bid to identify and apprehend the suspects.
Political leaders have issued a 24-hour ultimatum to security agencies to make arrests, warning of further unrest if justice is not served.
James Orengo criticized the pace of investigations, alleging possible interference, while the Orange Democratic Movement condemned the attack as a sign of rising political intolerance.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation as tensions remain high in the region.
