The recent attack on the rural home of Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has sparked calls for investigations from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), who condemned the incident as a flagrant violation of safety and security for Kenyans and their leaders.
The attack occurred late Wednesday night when unidentified assailants stormed Senator Omtatah’s rural residence, injuring one person. The attackers aggressively sought information about Omtatah’s whereabouts, a move that has drawn widespread condemnation.
In a statement, the ODM strongly denounced the attack, emphasizing the fundamental right of all Kenyans, including leaders, to safety and security. The party urged swift action from the government to investigate the incident and ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.
According to reports, the attackers subjected Senator Omtatah’s relatives to intimidation for nearly an hour, demanding to be directed to his residence. Fortunately, Omtatah was not present during the assault.
In his account to the media, Senator Omtatah expressed bewilderment over the incident, noting his strict adherence to meeting individuals only during official working hours. He highlighted his discomfort with nocturnal meetings and affirmed his commitment to maintaining safety protocols.
Local authorities, upon being alerted, promptly responded to the incident. The area Officer Commanding Police Division (OCPD), Alice Tedanyong, confirmed the launch of investigations into the matter, vowing to uncover the identities and motives of the perpetrators.
This assault adds to a series of concerning incidents involving Senator Omtatah. Last month, he was targeted by suspected hired goons who pelted stones at him as he exited a court in Busia. The assailants damaged his vehicle, prompting Omtatah to seek refuge at a nearby Agricultural Training Centre.
Furthermore, in February, the senator was involved in a minor road accident on the Kisumu-Busia highway. His vehicle was struck by a truck experiencing brake failure while ascending a steep hill. Fortunately, there were no serious injuries reported.
These incidents underscore the need for heightened security measures to safeguard the lives and well-being of public figures like Senator Omtatah. The recurring nature of such attacks raises concerns about the safety environment for political leaders in the region.
As investigations into the recent attack unfold, there is a collective call for accountability and justice. It is imperative that those responsible are swiftly apprehended and brought before the law to prevent further acts of violence and intimidation against Senator Omtatah and other leaders.
In the face of such challenges, there is a pressing need for concerted efforts from law enforcement agencies, government authorities, and the community to ensure the safety and security of all citizens, regardless of their status or affiliation.