Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai has written an open letter to Siaya Governor James Orengo, criticizing his handling of the recent attack on Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi.
In the strongly worded letter dated April 14, 2026, Alai questioned the legality and intent behind Orengo’s earlier communication to police authorities, in which the governor called for the arrest of individuals linked to the April 8 attack on Senator Osotsi in Kisumu.
While condemning the incident, which occurred at a city mall, Alai emphasized that all Kenyans deserve protection regardless of political affiliation. He insisted that those responsible must face justice, but strictly through lawful and constitutional procedures.
Let me be absolutely clear: I condemn without reservation the cowardly attack on Senator Osotsi at Java House, West End Mall, Kisumu on 8th April, 2026. Every Kenyan, regardless of political affiliation, deserves to move freely and safely in this country. Those who attacked the Senator must face the full force of the law, but through proper legal channels, not through the political directives of a Governor, writing on official letterhead, instructing the police on whom to arrest,” Alai said in a statement
Alai, however, accused Governor Orengo of overstepping his mandate by allegedly directing police on whom to arrest, arguing that such actions risk undermining due process and the independence of investigative agencies.
He raised concerns over what he termed as “prejudgment” of suspects, noting that investigations by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) were still ongoing. He further questioned the basis of evidence cited, including alleged CCTV footage, and whether it had undergone forensic verification.
The MCA also cited constitutional provisions, arguing that only the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has the authority to direct prosecutions, warning against political interference in criminal investigations.
Additionally, Alai highlighted concerns over the rights of suspects already in police custody, claiming that due process must be followed, including proper identification procedures and formal statements from the complainant.
He further challenged the governor to apply equal standards of justice across the political divide, cautioning against what he described as selective targeting.
