On 18th March 2026, Yusuf Suleiman Hamisi, a 31-year-old boda boda rider, has moved to court seeking Kshs. 100,000,000 in compensation from Busia Governor Paul Otuoma.
Through lawyer Danstan Omari, Hamisi claims that the Governor physically and violently assaulted him during an official seed distribution exercise at Bukri Market on March 6, 2026.According to court documents, Hamisi was part of an orderly queue of farmers awaiting certified maize seeds.
The petitioner denies behaving provocatively or bypassing the queue, stating he was simply attempting to hand a seedling to a woman standing next to him, an act allegedly captured on video.The documents state that the Governor verbally confronted Hamisi in Swahili, saying “Wewe toka hapo” (“You, get out of there”), before delivering a “deliberate and forceful kick directly to the victim’s groin area.”
The petitioner alleges a systematic effort to block his pursuit of justice. He states that he was turned away from Sioport Sub-County Hospital and Ruambo Sub-County Hospital when seeking a P3 form, allegedly due to the Governor’s influence.He further states that after reporting the matter at Sioport Police Station (OB Number 10/10/03/2026), Hamisi claims he was abducted but managed to escape.
He further alleges receiving persistent anonymous threatening calls and being visited by men demanding he withdraw the complaint.The rider remains in hiding, citing fear for his life after being publicly labeled an “enemy of the Governor.”
Hamisi is seeking several declarations and orders, including Kshs. 100,000,000 for physical injury, psychological trauma, and a cultural affront to the Petitioner’s manhood. He also requests a declaration that Governor Otuoma is unfit to hold public office and that his conduct warrants impeachment proceedings.
Further, he wants an order compelling the EACC and DPP to investigate the assault and subsequent intimidation. The petition also seeks an order for the Inspector General of Police to provide the petitioner with continuous personal security. Finally, Hamisi urges the Governor to issue a public apology to him and the people of Busia County within 14 days.
The petitioner maintains that the Governor used the machinery of his office to silence a citizen seeking public services, thereby violating the Leadership and Integrity Act and several articles of the Constitution.
