ODM deputy party leader declares gubernatorial ambitions

By Peter Ochieng

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) deputy party leader, and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi has declared gubernatorial ambitions.

Speaking at a funeral ceremony in the county on Saturday, October 19, 2024, Senator Osotsi said he will be on the Vihiga County gubernatorial ballot in 2027, as one of the people seeking to succeed Wilbur Otichillo.

Otichllo will not defend the seat since he is serving his second and last term, having been elected in 2017 and re-elected in 2022.

“I have heard people here speak about 2027. 2027 will come. As deputy party leader in ODM, I am playing politics at a higher level,” said the legislature.

“And if my politics are at a higher level, do you think I will fail to plan the politics of Vihiga? I have heard people say they are in the Senatorial contest, others in the gubernatorial contest. All those people we will plan for them.”

“Others will go back to being MPs or MCAs. In 2027, I am very strong and I want to be your governor,” he declared.

Governor Otichillo was elected on the ODM party ticket.

Reports indicate that Emuhaya Member of Parliament, Jeremiah Omboko Milemba, a member of the Amani National Congress party is also eyeing the Vihiga County gubernatorial seat.

Concerning the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Senator Osotsi said he cast his vote in favour of the impeachment motion, owing to Gachagua’s belief in the ‘government of shareholders.’

“We looked at the 11charges and found out that 6 of them lacked merit. Enough evidence was given to prove 5 charges, especially the issue of shareholding. As your Senator, I was among the first people to vote yes.”

On Thursday, the Senate upheld the impeachment motion against Gachagua, making him the first DP to be removed from office since the current constitution was promulgated in 2010.

The High Court has however suspended his impeachment, and subsequent appointment of his successor.