Boda Boda Riders Threaten Nationwide Protests Over Proposed Motorcycle Regulation Bill

 

By Janet Philip 

Boda boda operators across the country have issued a stern warning to the government, threatening nationwide protests if Parliament moves forward with the controversial Motorcycle Regulation Bill currently under consideration.

Appearing before the Parliamentary Committee on Transport, the Boda Boda Safety Association of Kenya (BOSAK) vehemently opposed the proposed legislation, labelling it retrogressive, financially unsustainable, and excessively bureaucratic.

In a strongly-worded memorandum submitted to the committee, the association said the bill poses a serious threat to the livelihoods of thousands of boda boda riders, many of whom operate at the grassroots level with limited resources. They argued that the bill duplicates the existing mandate of the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), undermines the constitutional responsibilities of county governments, and could lead to politicisation of the sector.

One of the most contentious provisions in the bill is the proposed creation of 47 county-level Motorcycle Transport and Safety Boards, along with the requirement for all boda boda riders to join Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs). BOSAK termed these measures “punitive,” warning they could foster corruption and increase the cost of doing business for riders already facing economic hardships.

“The Bill is a solution in search of a problem,” read part of the association’s statement. “If enacted, it will inflate operational costs, trigger regulatory confusion, and roll back economic gains made in the sector.”

Despite the concerns, several members of the Transport Committee expressed support for the bill, urging the boda boda representatives to seek amendments rather than outright rejection.

“You have an opportunity to shape laws that work for you. Don’t dismiss the bill entirely — propose changes,” said Bureti MP Komingoi Kibet during the session.

Laikipia East MP Mwangi Kiunjuri echoed similar sentiments, suggesting that strengthening existing institutions such as the NTSA would be more effective than setting up new parallel structures.

Security concerns surrounding the boda boda sector also featured prominently in the discussions. MPs Abdi Saney and Hussein Weytan cited increasing incidents of motorcycles being used in criminal activities, including drug trafficking and attacks on civilians. They emphasized the need for stronger oversight to protect public safety.

In response to these concerns, the Office of the Inspector-General of Police proposed the establishment of a multi-sectoral coordination committee. The body would include representatives from the NTSA, National Police Service, Council of Governors, and boda boda associations, aiming to streamline planning and enforcement efforts.

As debate over the bill continues, BOSAK has made it clear that unless their views are taken seriously and the bill amended accordingly, they are prepared to mobilize riders across the country in protest.

The proposed legislation remains under parliamentary review as consultations between lawmakers and stakeholders continue.