ODM Senator Emerges from 2-Day Vanishing Act
Godfrey Osotsi reappeared on Sunday, July 23, two days after it was alleged that he had been kidnapped by individuals suspected of being police officers.
Philip Etale, a spokesperson for the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), broke the news about his reappearance.
In a subsequent statement, Osotsi revealed that he had gone into hiding after learning that he was going to be detained.
“Attempts were made to arrest me on Friday during the introduction of the County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP) by the County Government of Vihiga.
“Two police lorries containing armed anti-riot officers were stationed in front of the Sosa cottages, and several plainclothes officers were positioned inside the cottages in preparation for the illegal arrest,” the statement read in part.
Osotsi explained that his supporters tipped him off and he escaped through an adjacent house to a safe house.
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“Yesterday, they intended to arrest me based on misplaced and unfounded fears that I intended to obstruct President William Ruto’s events.
“I want to reiterate that I had no such plans, and as a leader who believes in the freedom of assembly and association, I cannot engage in such a primitive and illegal activity,” he exonerated himself of any wrongdoing.
The outspoken lawmaker went on to criticize the government, stating that the President’s visit was intended to manipulate the sentiments of Vihiga residents into supporting the suspended Finance Act.
Osotsi added that residents of Vihiga who did not support the Finance Act were allowed to demonstrate and picket without fear of retaliation from the government.
The statement continued, “Kenya Kwanza should cease victimizing elected leaders like myself, as we are custodians of the people’s sovereign powers under Article 1 of the Constitution.”
Despite going into hiding, the lawmaker declared he will continue to engage in civil disobedience against the government commanded by Raila Odinga.
ODM Senator Emerges from 2-Day Vanishing Act