By Dorothy Musyoka
Vihiga County Senator Godfrey Osotsi has expressed deep concern over the disruptive events that unfolded during the groundbreaking ceremony of the Luanda Modern Market earlier this week.
In a statement, Senator Osotsi lamented the heckling and chaos that marred the event, terming the actions as archaic and devoid of respect for democratic principles.
“Politicics of mobilizing hecklers to demean others is archaic and has no room in modern society where voters have the final say,” he added.
According to the senator, what was meant to be a development-focused event turned into a scene of political intolerance, with hecklers targeting the Head of State and his entourage.
“It is very sad that an event styled as a development tour was turned into a theatre of heckling name calling and absurdity before the Head of State and his entourage,” noted Sen.Osotsi.
He urged leaders across the political divide to promote tolerance and reject outdated practices that demean opposing voices.
Osotsi also criticized the Kenya Kwanza leadership present at the event for failing to condemn the heckling, calling it an “unwise and barbaric act.”
“Notably,the Kenya Kwanza leadership who were in the meeting did not condemn this barbaric and unwise act,” stated Osotsi.
He emphasized the importance of fostering unity and respect among the people of Vihiga, who have long been known for their peaceful coexistence.
The senator further attributed the unrest to the abrupt demolition of traders’ stalls ahead of the event, a move he described as unnecessary and poorly coordinated.
He condemned the lack of adequate notice to the traders and called on the national government to compensate those who suffered losses due to the unplanned demolitions.
“This heckling is also attributed to the brutal and unnecessary demolition of traders stalls without adequate notice by the contractor and supervised by government officials to align to Presidential schedule,” lamented Sen.Osotsi.
Highlighting the need for order and respect during presidential functions, Senator Osotsi underscored the importance of organizing such events in a way that honors the high office while preserving unity among citizens.
Senator Osotsi urged all leaders to promote political tolerance despite the divergent opinions and ideologies.