Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo has strongly condemned the death of Laura Wesonga, a young woman who was fatally shot on Monday evening during a police operation in Busia Town, describing the incident as a tragic loss of an innocent life.
Wesonga is reported to have been caught in crossfire between police officers and suspected criminals in Marachi Estate while returning home from the gym. Her death has since sparked public anger and renewed scrutiny over police conduct during security operations.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Omanyo expressed deep sorrow over the incident, terming it both heartbreaking and unacceptable.
“It is heartbreaking that we continue to lose our young people in this way. Laura Wesonga was simply going about her normal life when it was cruelly cut short yesterday evening,” she said.
The legislator extended condolences to the family and friends of the deceased, calling for strength and unity during what she described as a painful moment for the community.
Omanyo also raised constitutional concerns, citing Article 39(3) of the Constitution of Kenya, which guarantees every citizen the right to move and reside anywhere in the country. She emphasized that no Kenyan should feel unsafe in any part of the country.
“Busia belongs to all Kenyans, and no one should ever feel unsafe or be forced to leave any place they have a constitutional right to live, work or conduct business,” she stated.
The MP criticized what she described as reckless police actions, insisting that law enforcement must operate within the law and prioritize the safety of civilians.
“Where there are credible allegations against individuals accused of breaking the law, it is the responsibility of the police to arrest them and ensure they face justice through the courts of law, not through reckless, unlawful actions that endanger innocent lives,” she added.
She further called out oversight bodies, including the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), demanding accountability over their perceived inaction.
“NCIC and IPOA must explain to Kenyans why they continue to appear ineffective despite being funded by taxpayers,” she said.
Omanyo urged residents of Busia to remain calm and avoid escalating tensions, calling for peaceful coexistence.
“Let us choose peace over division. Let us talk to one another, respect each other, and uphold the values that unite us as Kenyans,” she said.
Investigations into the incident are ongoing, with leaders and residents demanding justice for Wesonga and greater accountability from security agencies.