ODM Deputy Leader Osotsi Criticizes Ruto Over Heckling of Governor Otichillo at Luanda Market Event
ODM Deputy Party Leader and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi has strongly criticized President William Ruto and his administration following the heckling of Vihiga Governor Wilber Otichillo during the launch of the Luanda Modern Market.
Osotsi condemned the incident, terming it a “barbaric and thoughtless act” that embarrassed the people of Vihiga.
The heckling occurred when Governor Otichillo took to the podium to address the crowd during the market’s grand opening, which was graced by President Ruto.
However, the governor’s attempt to speak was met with jeers and boos from a section of the audience. Despite his efforts to address the gathering, the crowd’s hostility forced Otichillo to abandon his speech and walk away.
In a statement issued on Friday, Osotsi attributed the heckling to widespread anger over the demolition of traders’ stalls in preparation for Ruto’s visit.
The stalls were reportedly destroyed just a day before the event, leaving many traders frustrated and counting their losses.
Osotsi revealed that the demolitions were carried out under the supervision of government officials, following orders “from the powers that be.”
“This unfortunate heckling was a direct result of the brutal and unnecessary demolition of traders’ stalls, which was conducted without proper notice by the contractor and overseen by government officials to align with the presidential itinerary,” Osotsi said.
The senator expressed sympathy for Governor Otichillo, noting that he had been unfairly targeted by the aggrieved locals due to what he termed as failures by the National Government.
“It is regrettable that Governor Wilber Otichillo became the scapegoat of angry locals due to the gross oversights and omissions of the National Government,” he added.
Osotsi also called out the Kenya Kwanza leaders present at the event for failing to intervene or manage the situation as it unfolded.
He urged the government to compensate the traders whose livelihoods had been disrupted by the demolitions.
Additionally, he challenged government officials to improve the planning and organisation of presidential functions to prevent similar chaotic incidents in the future.
The ODM deputy leader described the incident as a disgrace, not only to Vihiga County but also to the nation.
“I am deeply troubled and disheartened by the embarrassing scenes that transpired at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Luanda Modern Market.
It is truly shameful that what was supposed to be a development-oriented event turned into a spectacle of heckling, insults, and unnecessary drama in the presence of the Head of State and his entourage,” he stated.
Osotsi further condemned the practice of mobilising hecklers, describing it as an outdated and divisive tactic that has no place in contemporary politics.
He called on his fellow leaders to promote political tolerance and avoid fueling divisions through such acts.
“This practice of orchestrating heckling is archaic and counterproductive. Leaders must refrain from promoting political intolerance and should instead focus on fostering unity and progress,” he said.
The incident at Luanda Market has sparked widespread debate, with many questioning the handling of the event and the treatment of local traders.
As President Ruto wraps up his five-day tour of the Western region, which included the launch of several development projects and political engagements, Osotsi’s remarks have reignited discussions on the need for better governance and respect for citizens’ livelihoods.
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