The Fellowship of Bishops in Busia County has called for urgent dialogue between the police, political leaders, and youth to address the recent tensions that led to the deaths of two people.
Speaking to the media, the bishops, led by their chairperson, Bishop George Odhiambo of Joe Ministries Busia, emphasised the need for peaceful engagement among the parties to restore calm and stability in the county.
“The existing tension between the police, youth, and political leaders must come to an end so that businesses can continue operating normally. We are calling for dialogue among leaders from these three groups to find a lasting solution for peace. Let us talk and find solutions for the well-being of our county and our people,” said Bishop Odhiambo.
The bishops also urged the police to avoid the use of excessive force following incidents in Busia town that resulted in loss of lives.
“Excessive force by police should be restrained, and the use of guns cannot solve the current challenges. Losing lives, especially in a manner that could have been avoided, is painful. Police should provide security and protect the people, not harm them,” he added.
Bishop John Sireka of the Assembly of Christ and Coordinator of the Busia Bishops Fellowship said it was unfortunate for such incidents to occur in Busia, considering its strategic position as a border town.
“Busia is an important town for Kenya and neighbouring countries. The looting and destruction witnessed should be strongly condemned. Many people have lost property and businesses, and some may struggle to service their loans. If this situation continues, we risk seeing people lose their properties through auction,” said Sireka.
He called on both levels of government to engage the youth through dialogue to find lasting solutions.
“Our economy is suffering due to the ongoing unrest. Our youth should seek engagement with leaders whenever they have grievances instead of engaging in violent confrontations with the police. Let us use available platforms for dialogue and raise our concerns peacefully,” he said.
Bishop Joseph Mwangi also urged all leaders and residents to uphold the rule of law during any form of engagement, while calling on police to avoid excessive force.
“Violence that leads to loss of lives and destruction of property cannot move us forward. We have no other country but this one. Let us protect our nation, care for one another, and use lawful channels to seek solutions,” he said.
At least two youths were shot dead after a confrontation with police officers when they attempted to storm Busia police station on Tuesday. The duo was part of more than 200 youth who demanded release of a suspect who was being held at the facility.
By Salome Alwanda and Rodgers Omondi
