Governor James Aggrey Orengo has identified the individuals he claims were behind the attack on Godfrey Osotsi at a Java House outlet in Kisumu on Wednesday.
Speaking shortly after visiting the injured senator in hospital, Orengo alleged that the assault was orchestrated by a group led by individuals he named as Boy Okoth and Lucas.
“There is a man known as Boy Okoth here in Kisumu who was seen around Java House where Osotsi was. He quickly mobilised others, calling in a gang that later carried out the attack,” Orengo said.
The governor warned that such incidents risk damaging Kisumu’s reputation as a peaceful city and could negatively impact its business environment if left unchecked. He further cautioned that the attack threatens the long-standing relationship between the Luhya and Luo communities.
According to Orengo, the bond between the two communities has historically been strengthened by leaders from the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga family, including Raila Odinga, who have consistently championed peaceful coexistence. He, however, claimed that there are efforts by unknown actors to undermine that unity.
“There is a powerful individual working behind the curtains, pulling strings to make sure Luhyas nolonger work with Luos ahead of 2027 elections. Remember, these two communities have a history. Luhyas have been our greatest supporters for many years. We are now risking this relationship. It doesn’t look very good and we ought to be careful,” Orengo announced saying that it is not the first time the opposition is being threatened and attacked in Nyanza as this has been going on unabated for long since Raila Odinga died.
Senator Osotsi was reportedly attacked by a group of armed men, leaving him with serious injuries. He was later airlifted to Nairobi and admitted to Karen Hospital, where he is currently recovering.