Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, the Deputy Leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), indirectly told President William Ruto, “You deserved it,” following an incident in which Vihiga Governor Wilber Otichillo was heckled by locals during Ruto’s visit to Luanda Market on January 22, 2025.
Otichillo was interrupted by loud jeers as he attempted to speak at the opening of the Luanda Modern Market, a project that was part of Ruto’s development tour of Western Kenya.
The crowd’s anger appeared to stem from the recent demolition of traders’ stalls in the area, a move Osotsi confirmed was carried out by government officials ahead of the visit.
William Ruto delivers a keynote speech during a past event. Photo: Tuko Source: Instagram
“This heckling is a direct result of the brutal and unnecessary demolition of traders’ stalls, which was done without proper notice and under the supervision of government officials to align with the presidential schedule.
“It is unfortunate that Governor Otichillo became the target of local frustrations due to the government’s lack of coordination.”
Osotsi criticized the Kenya Kwanza leadership present at the event for failing to address the situation as it unfolded, calling it an embarrassment to both the region and the people of Vihiga.
He also condemned the act of mobilizing hecklers, describing it as an outdated practice that should have no place in modern politics.
President William Ruto speaking during a State House meeting. Photo: William Ruto Source: Facebook
The ODM deputy leader called for immediate compensation for the affected traders and urged the national government to improve the organization of presidential events to avoid similar incidents in the future.
Ruto’s five-day tour of the Western region, which included the launch of several development projects, is scheduled to conclude today.
All the same, there have been claims, rumours and counter claims that President William Ruto’s move to appear leaning towards the Western and Nyanza regions is informed by reports that the Mt Kenya region that gave him 2.5 million votes has been ring-fenced by Rigathi Gachagua.
Do you think Ruto can do without Mt Kenya region?
