State warns against misuse of boda boda riders for political gain in Kisumu

Interior PS Raymond Omollo during an engagement with boda boda leaders in Kisumu county /FAITH MATETE

An engagement with boda boda leaders in Kisumu county/ FAITH MATETE

The government has warned against the misuse of young people, particularly boda boda operators, for political gain, even as it reaffirmed its commitment to support and streamline the sector. 

Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo cautioned riders against allowing themselves to be drawn into violence or unlawful activities. 

The PS spoke during an engagement with boda boda leaders in Kisumu county.

The meeting brought together representatives from all seven constituencies – Kisumu East, Kisumu West, Kisumu Central, Seme, Nyando, Nyakach and Muhoroni – and served as a platform to address challenges facing the sector and explore ways to improve livelihoods. 

Omollo acknowledged the critical role boda boda operators play in the economy, noting that the sector supports more than two million Kenyans and remains a vital link in last-mile transport. 

“The boda boda sector remains a key pillar of our transport system and economy. It connects wananchi to their homes, markets and workplaces and supports millions of livelihoods,” he said.

He emphasised the need for stronger collaboration between riders and security agencies, including the National Police Service and National Government Administrative Officers, particularly in intelligence sharing to enhance community safety.

“Because of your daily interaction with communities, you are well placed to support security through timely information sharing and cooperation with our officers,” he added.

In a move aimed at easing pressure on riders, the PS reiterated a government directive for the release of motorbikes impounded over minor offences.

He confirmed that the order, issued by President William Ruto, is already being implemented across the Nyanza region. 

“All motorbikes held on account of petty offences will be released. This directive is being effected to ease the burden on operators and restore their means of livelihood,” he said. 

However, he clarified that cases involving serious offences will still be handled through the legal process.

At the same time, Omollo called for greater discipline within the sector, stressing the importance of compliance with regulations such as registration, proper identification, valid driving licences and insurance. 

“Every boda boda operator must be registered, identified and compliant with the law. This is how we build a sector that is respected, organised and sustainable.”

The PS issued a firm warning against the use of boda boda riders in political activities that may lead to unrest, urging them to remain focused on lawful work. 

“We must say no to violence. Do not allow yourselves to be used by any individual or politician to cause chaos,” he said.  

Omollo also commended Kisumu residents for maintaining calm in the past and urged them to continue rejecting incitement. 

On youth empowerment, he said the government is implementing programmes aimed at expanding opportunities for young people, including affordable housing, digital jobs and labour mobility initiatives.

“Our youth are a critical national resource. We must support them with opportunities, not expose them to exploitation or misuse,” he said. 

He also encouraged Kenyans to take advantage of ongoing government services, including registration under the Social Health Authority, acquisition of national identity cards and participation in voter registration. 

“An ID gives you identity, access to services and enables government to plan effectively. I urge all eligible Kenyans, especially the youth, to register as voters and participate in shaping the future of this country,” he said.

On political freedoms, the PS reaffirmed that while Kenyans have the right to assemble and express themselves, such activities must be conducted within the law, including notifying the police in advance.

“Kenya is governed by the rule of law. Everyone has the right to assemble and express themselves, but this must be done within the law,” he said. 

He cautioned against intimidation, adding that while those holding meetings will be protected, others must be allowed to go about their daily activities without disruption. 

The PS reaffirmed the government’s commitment to continued engagement with the boda boda sector, noting that collaboration between national and county leadership is key to improving livelihoods and driving development. 

The meeting was attended by Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathew Owili, Kisumu Central MP Joshua Oron, Lang’ata MP Felix Odiwuor, Medical Services Principal Secretary Ouma Oluga, Lake Basin Development Authority CEO Wycliffe Ochiaga, regional commissioner Flora Mworoa and Boda Boda Safety Association of Kenya chairperson Kevin Mubadi, among other leaders.