Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has paid tribute to slain Molo activist Richard Otieno, describing his killing as a painful reminder of the dangers posed by hate and intolerance.
In his tribute shared on Saturday, February 8, Omtatah praised Otieno’s unwavering commitment to truth and justice, describing him as a fearless advocate who was never afraid to challenge the status quo.
The senator highlighted Otieno’s courage and resilience, emphasizing the deep impact he had on his community.
"Richard Otieno’s life was tragically taken in an act of senseless violence, a painful reminder of the dangers that stem from the divisions sown by hate and intolerance. He stood for the truth, spoke his mind, and dared to challenge the status quo.
"Richard’s life was a testament to courage, resilience, and the strength of the human spirit. He spoke out when others were silent, and he stood firm in his beliefs, regardless of the consequences. It is this spirit that lives on in the hearts of those who knew him. The pain in the eyes of his loved ones, and the unity displayed by all who came to honor him, reflects the profound impact Richard had," he said.
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Omtatah urged Kenyans to rise above division and work towards a society based on peace and respect.
"May his memory serve as a powerful reminder that we must rise above the forces of division and build a Kenya where peace, respect, and solidarity prevail. Rest in peace, Richard Otieno. Your light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew you. You are gone, but never forgotten," he concluded.
Otieno was brutally killed on January 18, 2025.
An autopsy conducted on Otieno's body by Government Pathologist Dr. Johansen Oduor confirmed that he died from severe head injuries caused by a sharp object.
"The late Richard had several severe injuries; there were multiple slash wounds on the back of the head which led to fracture of the skull and extensive bleeding of the brain. There were also some slash wounds on the frontal area of the skull though this one did not fracture the skull and there were also bruises on the face," he said.
On Monday, February 3, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said five individuals linked to Otieno's murder had been arrested.
In a statement, DCI said the suspects include both direct perpetrators and individuals who aided in the crime.
According to the investigating agency, the primary suspects are Geoffrey Mavado, John Ndegwa, and Jorim Ngonga Sura.
The two remaining suspects, Clinton Simantu alias Muiruri and Peter Mwaniki alias Pinchez, are bodaboda operators who allegedly transported the hitmen.
"The suspects are prime suspects Geoffrey Mavado, John Ndegwa, and Jorim Ngonga Sura, believed to have been directly involved in the brutal killing. The other two; Clinton Simantu alias Muiruri and Peter Mwaniki alias Pinchez are bodaboda operators who have been identified as the persons who ferried the hitmen to and from the scene of crime," the statement read.
