There was a moment of conflict between boda boda riders and their leaders during the launch of an empowerment programme at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre on Monday.
Thomas Lesatin, who claimed to be the chairperson of the Boda boda Association of Kenya, alleged that the riders who had spoken before him were sent by cartels.
"Hawa sio viongozi wa boda boda. Wale vijana ambao wameongea hapa kwa niaba yetu, wanaongea kwa sababu wakona cartels ambao wamekaa mbele yao kuwasukuma karibu na Rais, sisi ambao tulisimama na wewe tunajua ukweli," he said.
(These are not boda boda leaders. The youth who have spoken here on our behalf spoke because they have cartels at the front pushing them closer to the President. Those of us who stood with you know the truth)
President William Ruto was present to preside over the official launch of the Boda boda Capacity Building and Empowerment Programme at the KICC.
Before Lesatin finished his speech, boda boda riders started shouting and booing, asking him to sit down.
Michael Gitonga, the MC of the event, came to his defence and unsuccessfully tried to cool down the riders.
"Kindly let him speak," he said.
Chairperson of the Boda boda Association in Nairobi, Ken Onyango, said it was crucial for the leaders in all branches to take part in the event as unity is key.
"All these boda boda leaders present here know each other. So many others have not been invited or involved in this event. Next time we want them to be included," he said.
