It has emerged that Alego Usonga lawmaker Samuel Atandi could face tough hurdles defending his seat in the 2022 general elections.
According to Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) officials in Siaya county, the vocal parliamentarian seems to be losing his popularity to a newcomer.
Siaya ODM youth official Charles Onguko says that Atandi is facing opposition from Martin Otieno alias Mijesh, a newcomer who is very keen on unseating him in the much-anticipated race.
He added that the same has seen the vocal leader become furious with area leaders and politicians seemingly allied to Mijeshi.
"Mijesh seems to be giving him sleepless nights. That is why he is furious,” Onguko told the Nation on Sunday.
This follows allegations that Atandi hired goons to attack a nominated Member of County Assembly (MCA) on Friday night.
According to a report recorded at the Siaya Police Station under OB: 4/29/12/2018, Winnie Otieno said that the goons ambushed her and her three colleagues while leaving Manicaland Hotel in Malanga, Alego.
She added that they vandalized her car, an incident that has been confirmed by County Police Commander Ambrose Mwawaka.
According to the MCA, the attack emanates from her apparent closeness and collaboration with Mijeshi.
With such grave allegations about the lawmaker renting the air, it is believed he is losing his popularity and respect by the locals as Mijeshi uses the opportune moment to make himself popular.