Khalwale Bows to Pressure, Moves to Withdraw Motorcycle Bill.
Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale has announced his intention to withdraw the Public Transport (Motorcycle Regulation) Bill 2023 after facing strong opposition from boda boda riders, who viewed it as an effort to undermine their livelihoods.
Addressing the press, Khalwale clarified that his motivation for sponsoring the bill was to bring order to the boda boda industry, which has gained notoriety for frequently violating traffic regulations.
The senator emphasized that the bill was designed to enhance safety, curb fatal accidents, and instill discipline in the sector. He highlighted his longstanding commitment to addressing the concerns of ordinary citizens, citing over two decades of advocacy.
He expressed concern over the increasing loss of lives among young people involved in the industry and insisted that regulations were necessary to reduce the high fatality rates on the roads.
Additionally, he noted that boda boda riders were not covered under the Work Injury Benefits Act, leaving them without compensation in case of accidents.
Bill Faces Political Resistance
Khalwale refuted claims that the proposed regulations were meant to oppress the youth, arguing that they were instead meant to secure their future. However, he asserted that the bill had been politicized, which led to hostility towards him.
He lamented that critics had deliberately misrepresented the legislation, causing unnecessary tension. He stated that he would officially write to the Senate and National Assembly Clerks to request the withdrawal of the bill.
The bill proposed several measures, including mandatory registration of boda boda riders with both the county government and a sacco.
It also required the installation of tracking devices on motorcycles and the establishment of valid employment contracts between riders and owners.
Further, the bill outlined penalties such as a Ksh.20,000 fine for riding on pedestrian walkways and a Ksh.100,000 fine or a one-year jail term for those who colluded with others to intimidate or harm individuals.
Boda Boda Association Threatens Protests
Following the bill’s introduction in the National Assembly, the Boda Boda Association of Kenya (BSAK) threatened nationwide protests if it was passed.
BSAK Nairobi Chairman Samuel Waraga declared that any MP who supported the bill would be sent home immediately, emphasizing that they would not wait until the 2027 elections to take action.
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He insisted that the boda boda industry held significant political influence, referring to their collective strength as the ‘third government’ after the national and county governments.
With growing pressure from boda boda operators and political forces, Khalwale’s decision to withdraw the bill highlights the challenges of regulating the sector while balancing economic and political interests.
Khalwale Bows to Pressure, Moves to Withdraw Motorcycle Bill
