Inside Khalwale’s New Controversial Boda Boda Bill That Governor Barasa Opposes
Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has committed to lead a protest against the new Boda Boda Regulations Bill, which was introduced to the Senate by Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale and then tabled in the National Assembly.
Barasa stated in a public event on February 22 in Shirere Ward, Kakamega County, that the law will have a negative impact on Boda Boda’s livelihood.
He also promised to join Boda Boda in leading protests against the new bill, which seeks to introduce extra rules governing registration operation procedures and safety precautions at the county level.
The Public Transport (Motorcycle Regulation) Bill sponsored by Senator Boni Khalwale is punitive to the Bodaboda sector, a vital contributor to the economies of Kakamega County and Kenya at large. 1/ pic.twitter.com/xclZHhySYu
— FCPA Fernandes Barasa, OGW (@BarasaFernandes) February 22, 2025
“The proposed bill will have adverse effects on Boda Boda, we should be speaking about the safety of our Boda Boda and not proposing bills that will cause a major uproar among youths,” Barasa said.
“I will ensure l stand with the Boda Boda in leading a protest to oppose the bill. l will be on the forefront to send a petition to the Senate to oppose it,” the governor said.
The Senate Majority Whip, Boni Khalwale, introduced the Public Transport (Motorcycle Regulation) Bill, 2023.
The legislation mandates Boda Boda proprietors to formalise agreements with their riders, including payment, working hours, and employment terms.
The Boda Boda Association of Kenya has threatened nationwide protests if the National Assembly passes the Public Transport Bill 2023.
— Moe (@moneyacademyKE) February 21, 2025
The proposed changes include:
—Mandatory county registration for all boda boda operators
—Installation of GPS tracking devices on motorcycles…
The measure also demands rider registration and licensing, the deployment of predetermined routes, and increased enforcement of traffic regulations.
The act emphasizes the county government’s role in business regulation, with a member representing transportation on the County Executive Committee coordinating with a newly formed board led by a representative selected by the governor.
Motorcyclists must help board personnel comply with the new regulations, according to Article 33(2) of the Senate’s draft 2023 Bill, which was placed before the National Assembly.
Regulating Boda Bodas:
— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) February 19, 2025
New bill seeks stricter rules for boda boda sector
Senator Bonny Khalwale is mover of the bill
Boda boda riders push back on proposed bill #JKLive @AyubAbdikadir pic.twitter.com/balyBl2LQP
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“The owner or rider of a motorcycle shall render the assistance of an authorised officer for an inspection and produce all necessary documents and information. An authorized officer shall order the production by the owner or rider of a document evidencing registration, insurance, and any other document so required under this Act,” article 33(3,4) stipulates.
Furthermore, Article 16 requires all riders to have valid driver’s licenses provided by training schools approved by the National Transport Authority.
Furthermore, Article 16(2) states that the NTSA requires training in customer service and etiquette, the capacity to handle crises, and basic motorcycle maintenance and security awareness certificates.
Once the bill is signed into law, riders will no longer be able to carry two people at the same time. According to the law, bikers are not allowed to carry passengers weighing more than 50 kg.
Inside Khalwale’s New Controversial Boda Boda Bill That Governor Barasa Opposes
