Richard Onyonka, the Kisii Senator, narrowly escaped confrontation with suspected goons on Saturday evening, April 25, while travelling to Bondo.
Onyonka was reportedly coming from a Linda Mwananchi political rally in Vihiga and was expected to join colleagues at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi to pay respects to the late Raila Odinga before proceeding to Kisumu for another rally scheduled for Sunday, April 26.
The senator made a stopover at a hotel near Bondo, unaware of what was unfolding outside. Upon alighting from his vehicle, he allegedly found himself surrounded by individuals who objected to his presence, citing his political stance and insisting he would not be allowed entry.
Kisii senator Richard Onyonka escapes a suspected attack by goons on the way to Bondo. Photo: Courtesy.
The group allegedly ordered Richard Onyonka to leave the premises and return to his vehicle. He complied and departed the scene together with his team, and no injuries were reported.
Following the incident, the Kisii senator blamed the situation on President William Ruto, alleging that he was using groups to intimidate political critics.
He further claimed that the confrontation occurred while he had stopped at a restaurant near Bondo for a meal on his way to Kang’o Ka Jaramogi.
“On my way to Kang’o KaJaramogi, I made a stopover in one restaurant near Bondo where I intended to have a meal. A few minutes later goons appeared and started harassing me saying that I can’t eat in Luo, Nyanza because I’m a Kisii and opposing William Ruto. We left unhurt! The goons came in proboxes!” Onyonka noted.
The incident came weeks after senator Godfrey Osotsi was allegedly attacked and beaten in Kisumu.
Osotsi, also linked to the Linda Mwananchi movement, was reportedly at a hotel when a group of assailants stormed in and assaulted him.
CCTV footage is said to have captured the attackers dragging him from his seat before beating him.
He sustained injuries and was first rushed to Aga Khan Hospital Kisumu before being transferred to The Karen Hospital for further treatment.
In connection with the incident, three suspects were arrested and detained as detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations launched investigations.
