Boda Boda Association threatens nationwide protests over Public Transport Bill 2023

The Boda Boda Association of Kenya has threatened nationwide demonstrations if the National Assembly passes the Public Transport Bill 2023.

The Senate has already approved the Public Transport Motorcycle Regulation Bill of 2023, which proposes strict regulations, including a 50-kilogram cap on luggage carried by motorcycles.

The bill, sponsored by Senator Boni Khalwale, has faced increasing opposition nationwide, with boda boda riders calling it an attempt to suppress their livelihoods.

Speaking on Thursday, BSAK National Chairman Kevin Mubadi called the bill "oppressive" and raised concerns that it could open doors to corruption.

One of the key points of contention is the proposal to limit the weight of luggage carried on a motorbike to 50 kilograms. Mubadi argued that such a regulation is unrealistic, given that Kenya lacks the infrastructure necessary to enforce it.

"We are wondering, will these MPs provide weighing machines kwa kila barabara ndio askari akinishika seme hii yako imepita kilo mbili, hii yako imepita kilo ishirini? Hiyo sisi tumekataa, unless warudishe hapa tufanye public participation,'" said Mubadi.

The bill is generating more debate, with several controversial clauses now in the spotlight. One such clause proposes a Ksh.20,000 fine for anyone caught riding on a pedestrian walkway, raising concerns among riders.

Another point of contention is the formation of county boards to regulate bodaboda activities, with chairs appointed by county governors. The bill also includes a proposal to install trackers on all motorcycles, a move that has sparked privacy concerns among many in the industry.

“Sisi watu wa bodaboda tunaumia, baridi inatukula, tunaumia na limonia, alafu mtu analeta mswada azidi kutuangamiza. Iyo mswada msijaribu kupitisha, nakama sio hivyo, 2027 tuko na nyinyi,” said David Moi, a Boda boda rider based in Kisumu.

“Mtu yeyote atadhubutu kupitisha hiyo bill, nyumbani direct! Sisi hata hatutangojea hiyo 2027, tuko tayari! Na sisi ndio serikali namba tatu, tuko na national government, county government, na boda boda government,” said BSAK Nairobi Chairman, Samuel Waraga.

According to the Boda Boda Safety Association of Kenya, the sub-sector has employed more than 2 million people across the country. With the situation evolving, all eyes are now on the National Assembly to decide the next steps.