ODM acting Secretary General and Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo has announced the death of one of her staff members, Frederick Odiwour, also known as Papa.
In a statement, Omanyo expressed grief over the incident and said she is following up on the matter with authorities.
She stated: “I have received with deep sorrow the news of the passing of my staff member Frederick Odiwour (Papa). Papa succumbed to a bullet fired... in Busia.
"I am personally following up on the matter with the relevant authorities to ensure that the circumstances surrounding this incident are addressed and justice is pursued. To the family and friends of Papa, I extend my deepest condolences. May you find strength during this difficult time," she added.
Following the statement, an X user challenged details surrounding the incident, including the identity of the deceased and the circumstances of the shooting. The user also linked the incident to the fuel demonstrations in parts of the country.
The user wrote: “His name is Fredrick Odhiambo. Fredrick was shot in Busia County during the protests against high fuel prices. Fredrick was only asking to be heard, But...responded using a bullet. May Fredrick Odhiambo Rest In Peace. We will remember to remember.”
The post generated further public discussion online, with differing accounts emerging over what transpired in Busia.
Omanyo later responded, disputing claims that the incident was linked to fuel price protests in Busia Town. She maintained that Papa was not involved in the demonstrations and provided an alternative account of events.
She said: “There were no fuel protests in Busia Town. Papa was shot on his way back home after taking his pregnant wife to the hospital. The unrest was caused by supporters of a certain individual who had been arrested in Busia, and not by fuel-related protests.”
The incident comes against the backdrop of nationwide demonstrations that began on May 18 and continued into May 19 in several towns, with participants protesting against high fuel prices.
Authorities have not yet issued a detailed public account of the shooting. The matter remains under discussion, with calls for clarity and investigation continuing across different platforms.
Omanyo has said she is engaging relevant authorities to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure accountability.
