Senator Okiya Omtatah: A Testament to Integrity and Resilience in the Fight for Justice

By Robert Mutasi 

In a candid and powerful revelation, Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah, known for his tireless activism and unwavering commitment to justice, shared the stark truth of his fight against corruption and impunity in Kenya. 

Through his speech, Omtatah recounted the personal hardships that his refusal to accept bribes has faced him, highlighting the sacrifices he made in his pursuit of a fair and just society.

"The teeth I have are fake, 10 of them were pulled out because I refused a Ksh9 million bribe," Omtatah said, pointing out the physical violence he has endured due to his firm stance against corruption. 

This statement, along with the revelation that his skull has been cracked twice, underscores the dangerous path he has taken as a vocal critic of the powerful and corrupt people who dominate Kenya's political scene.

Omtatah who is currently serving as the Busia Senator has been a beacon of hope for many Kenyans especially those who have lost faith in local institutions. 

His activism began in the early 2000s, where he emerged as a fierce defender of human rights and democracy. 

Through numerous court cases and public protests, Omtatah has repeatedly challenged the government and other powerful institutions, demanding accountability and transparency.

One of his notable achievements is his role in annulling the results of the 2017 presidential election. 

Omtatah's petition to the Supreme Court, along with other civil society organizations, was instrumental in the court's historic decision to annul the election, citing irregularities and violations of the law in the election process. 

This historic decision was a turning point in Kenya's democratic journey and cemented Omtatah's reputation as a defender of the constitution.

Despite facing many threats, including physical attacks and attempts to bribe him, Omtatah has remained steadfast. 

"We have the ability to handle these people, and the power is to say no," he emphasized. 

His refusal to accept a bribe of Ksh 200 million is evidence of his commitment to integrity and justice.

Omtatah's courage and determination has inspired a generation of activists and ordinary citizens to stand up against corruption and fight for their rights. 

His journey, marked by both triumph and sacrifice, serves as a powerful reminder that the pursuit of justice often comes at great personal cost, but it is a struggle worth enduring.