Ruto Orders Release of Over 9,000 Impounded Boda Bodas
President William Ruto has issued a directive to all police stations across the country to release more than 9,000 boda boda motorcycles currently being held without any links to criminal activity.
Speaking on Thursday, August 7, during a meeting with boda boda representatives from all sub-counties at State House, Nairobi, President Ruto emphasized that these motorcycles should be released within seven days.
He instructed Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo and Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to oversee the immediate release of the bikes.
The President stated that the move is part of his administration’s commitment to empowering the boda boda sector, which he described as a vital contributor to Kenya’s economy. He stressed that many young people rely on boda boda operations for their livelihoods and that they deserve to be supported rather than harassed.
“I met boda boda officials from every sub-county at State House in Nairobi. I have given amnesty for all motorcycles that have been impounded at police stations but are not connected to any criminal cases,” President Ruto said. “I’ve directed the Ministry of Interior to collaborate with the Inspector General of Police to ensure the bikes are returned to their owners within one week.”
Ruto further added that the government is planning to develop a new law that promotes self-regulation among boda boda operators. The plan is to allow riders to manage themselves through organized structures such as saccos (savings and credit cooperative societies) or associations.
“Boda boda riders are legitimate businesspeople who deserve full government support. We intend to work closely with all players in the sector to create a legal framework that will allow them to self-regulate and grow their businesses even further,” the President explained.
This announcement comes just two weeks after the Kenyan Parliament agreed to continue with the progress of the Public Transport Motorcycle Regulation Bill, 2025. The bill seeks to establish better control and structure within the boda boda industry.
The bill was introduced by Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale and aims to regulate key aspects of the boda boda sector including safety measures, registration, and operations at the county level.
Although Senator Khalwale had formally requested to withdraw the bill due to public backlash, members of parliament rejected his appeal and voted to continue with its implementation.
If the bill is passed into law, each county will be required to set up a County Motorcycle Transport and Safety Board. This board will be responsible for the registration of riders, organizing training programs, and monitoring daily operations of the boda boda sector.
One of the proposed requirements in the bill is for all boda boda riders to be members of a SACCO and undergo formal training on road safety and transport regulations.
The bill also proposes heavy penalties for misconduct. Riders caught using pedestrian walkways will face a fine of Ksh20,000, while those found guilty of plotting to harm someone in collaboration with others could be fined up to Ksh100,000 or sentenced to one year in prison.
In a recent communication issued on Tuesday, July 22, Parliament confirmed that it would conduct public participation forums to involve all stakeholders from the boda boda community. These forums are meant to ensure that the final law reflects the views and suggestions of those directly affected.
According to a report from Parliament, “In a letter dated March 7, 2025, the Speaker of the Senate acknowledged Senator Khalwale’s request to pull back the bill due to widespread public concern.
However, after reviewing the matter, the Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetang’ula, announced that the bill would proceed as planned, following a majority vote that opposed the withdrawal.”
This combined effort by the President and lawmakers shows a strong push to support and formalize the boda boda industry, which continues to be a major driver of employment and transport services across the country.
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