former Law Society of Kenya President Nelson Havi to derail a defamation case
The High Court has directed parties to urgently respond to a constitutional petition seeking the removal of Paul Otuoma over alleged assault and abuse of office.
The matter was filed by Yusuf Suleiman Hamisi, a 31-year-old bodaboda rider, accuses the Governor of violently attacking him during a public function in Busia County.
According to court documents, the incident is said to have occurred on March 6, 2026, at Bukri Market in Funyula Constituency, during a county-led exercise to distribute certified maize seeds to farmers.
Hamisi alleges that while he was peacefully queuing, the Governor confronted him and kicked him in the groin without provocation, an incident reportedly captured on video and widely circulated online, sparking public outrage.
He further claims that in the aftermath, he was subjected to threats, intimidation, and even an attempted abduction. Efforts to obtain medical attention and a P3 form, he says, were repeatedly frustrated at county health facilities, raising concerns of interference.
The petition names the Governor, the Office of the Governor, the Speaker of the Busia County Assembly, and the County Assembly as respondents. It also lists key state agencies as interested parties, including the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and the Inspector General of Police.
He is seeking multiple orders, among them declarations that his rights were violated, compensation for damages, and directives compelling investigations into the incident.
He is also urging the Busia County Assembly to initiate impeachment proceedings against the Governor.
Further, the petitioner has asked the court to grant conservatory orders to bar any further intimidation and to compel police to provide him with protection, stating that he has since gone into hiding for fear of his safety.
The court has directed that the petition be served and responses filed ahead of a mention scheduled for March 21, 2026.
