In a statement shared on his official X account on Friday, April 10, 2026, Alai claimed that efforts to visit the injured senator were blocked by individuals he described as part of the “Linda Mwananchi” group.
He questioned their motives, accusing them of exploiting the incident for political gain.
“I wanted to go visit my friend Senator Osotsi in the hospital. The Linda Mwananchi gang refused me access. Why are these people using the unfortunate incident to further their political careers?” Alai wrote.
Osotsi recovering after Kisumu attack
The MCA’s remarks come as Senator Osotsi continues to recover from injuries sustained during an alleged assault by a group of armed individuals in Kisumu County on Wednesday, April 8.
According to Derick Luvega, Director of Communication at the Vihiga Senate Office, the senator had been going about his routine activities before the incident occurred. He reportedly visited a barbershop in the Acacia area before proceeding to a nearby restaurant, where he interacted with members of the public.
It was at the restaurant that the situation turned violent. A group of individuals, said to be armed, confronted the senator and questioned him over his political stance.
Luvega noted that Osotsi’s security team exercised restraint during the incident, avoiding the use of firearms in order to protect civilians who were present at the scene.
“We strongly condemn this barbaric and cowardly act, which appears to have been premeditated and orchestrated,” part of the statement read.
He further emphasized that the incident should not be used to cast aspersions on residents of Kisumu, describing them as generally peaceful and hospitable.
Senator recounts ordeal
Speaking from his hospital bed on Friday, April 10, 2026, Osotsi gave his account of the events leading up to the attack.
He explained that after spending approximately 40 minutes at a barbershop, he proceeded to a hotel, unaware of any imminent danger.
Shortly after arriving, a group of about 20 youths entered the premises and began calling out his name. According to the senator, they initially appeared friendly before their demeanor changed.
Osotsi claimed that the group questioned him over his political affiliations, including why he was not supporting the President and his association with the slogan “Wantam.”
The situation quickly escalated into violence, with the group allegedly attacking him using kicks and blows. He said the assault left him immobilised as he attempted to crawl away from the attackers.
Political tensions under scrutiny
The incident has sparked widespread concern over rising political tensions and the safety of leaders during public engagements.
Alai’s claims of being denied access to the hospital add another dimension to the unfolding situation, highlighting internal political friction among leaders and their supporters.
While there has been no immediate response from the group accused by Alai, the claims are likely to intensify debate over the handling of the incident and the broader issue of political intolerance.
Authorities have yet to issue a detailed update on investigations into the attack, but pressure continues to mount on security agencies to identify and apprehend those responsible.
Calls for calm
As the situation continues to unfold, leaders across the political divide have called for restraint and peaceful engagement.
The attack on Osotsi, coupled with emerging political disputes surrounding the incident, has once again brought into focus the need for tolerance, dialogue and respect among political actors.
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