PS Raymond Omollo Responds After Being Accused Of Sponsoring Goons To Attack Senator Osotsi In Kisumu

Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has called for calm and accountability among political leaders following the recent attack on Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi in Kisumu.

Speaking in Lodwar, Turkana County, on Friday, April 10, 2026, Omollo condemned the incident and wished the senator a quick recovery, while warning that increasing cases of politically linked violence pose a serious threat to Kenya’s democratic stability as the country edges closer to the 2027 General Election.

“It is very unfortunate what happened to Osotsi, and I would like to wish him well, but the point is, any leader who uses goons for criminal purposes must be held accountable,” Omollo stated.

Rising concerns over political violence

Omollo expressed concern over what he described as a growing culture of violence in political engagements, noting that such actions undermine democratic values and peaceful coexistence.

According to the PS, confrontations during political events are becoming more frequent, raising alarm among authorities tasked with maintaining law and order.

“The use of violence has increasingly come to define our political engagement, a development that threatens the core of our democratic discourse,” he said.

He emphasized that the government is taking deliberate steps to address the situation and restore order across the country. Omollo noted that security agencies are on high alert to prevent further incidents and ensure that political activities are conducted peacefully.
Call for responsible leadership

The Interior PS urged political leaders to take responsibility for their supporters and to avoid rhetoric or actions that may incite violence.

He stressed the importance of promoting peaceful participation in political processes, calling on leaders across the divide to exercise restraint and uphold national unity.

“We urge political leaders to abandon divisive and confrontational approaches and instead embrace responsible and peaceful engagement,” he said.

Omollo added that leadership comes with accountability, warning that those found sponsoring violence or using criminal elements during political activities would face the full force of the law.
Youth warned against political manipulation

In his address, Omollo also cautioned against the mobilisation of young people to engage in violent acts during political events.

He warned that such practices not only expose youth to danger but also jeopardise their future by drawing them into criminal activities.

“We further caution against the mobilisation of youth for acts of violence and call for their redirection towards meaningful and constructive opportunities that safeguard their future and the stability of the nation,” he said.

The PS underscored the need to protect young people from exploitation, urging leaders to focus on empowering them through education, employment and civic engagement.
Murkomen orders crackdown on goons

Omollo’s remarks come in the wake of directives issued by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who condemned the attack on Senator Osotsi and ordered a crackdown on individuals involved in political violence.

Murkomen directed Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to move swiftly and arrest those responsible, including individuals allegedly being used by politicians to disrupt events.

“I have seen some opposition figures mentioning my PS during a press conference. I challenge them to come out openly and denounce the violence, goons and gangs they are walking around with,” Murkomen said.

He further urged political leaders to support government efforts aimed at dismantling criminal networks and restoring order during public gatherings.

“I want to ask the IG Kanja to move with speed and arrest all those boys being used in functions so that it becomes a clear example that we are serious about fighting gangs,” he added.
Focus shifts to accountability

The attack on Senator Osotsi has intensified the national conversation around political tolerance and the conduct of leaders ahead of the 2027 elections.

With tensions rising in various parts of the country, authorities are now under pressure to ensure accountability and prevent further escalation of violence.

Omollo reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding democratic space, calling on all stakeholders to prioritise peace, dialogue and the rule of law.