Siaya Governor James Orengo has condemned the excessive force used by police during recent protests in Busia County, noting that the death toll from Tuesday’s clashes has increased to five.
On Saturday, May 23, 2026, Orengo shared on his X account that he visited the border town to support grieving families and view the bodies of those lost in various mortuaries.
“I visited Busia County to stand in solidarity with the resilient residents, to console families facing unimaginable losses, and to honor our fallen heroes in the mortuaries,” Orengo expressed.
Among the deceased, he identified Fredrick Odiwour, a notable staff member of Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo.
In a statement on her X account on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, Omanyo expressed her deep sorrow over Odiwour’s death from injuries, stating she is following up with authorities to ensure a thorough investigation into the shooting and justice for the victims.
“Odiwour succumbed to a bullet fired by a police officer in Busia. I am actively pursuing this matter with the relevant authorities to ensure justice is served,” Omanyo stated.
Orengo explained that the protests arose from the recent spike in fuel prices, which has intensified living costs and led to matatu strikes in Busia and beyond.
“These individuals were not criminals; they were young Kenyans protesting against economic hardships, and their only crime was refusing to suffer in silence,” he stated.
“We must recognize the underlying cause of this uprising. The people of Busia, like many Kenyans, took to the streets due to a staggering 24 percent increase in fuel prices.”
While condemning the property destruction, looting, and disruption of cross-border trade during the protests, Orengo emphasized that lethal force against protesters is unacceptable.
“Property can be repaired and trade can resume, but a human life, once lost, cannot be replaced,” he added.
Orengo accused police officers of using excessive and brutal force against citizens protesting harsh economic conditions.
He urged the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to conduct immediate investigations into the deaths and ensure those responsible are held accountable.
“We demand that the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) initiate swift and thorough investigations to bring the responsible individuals to justice. We seek accountability, not empty promises; we want to identify and hold the rogue officers accountable,” Orengo asserted.
