Kakamega: A proposed Bill by Senator Boni Khalwale aimed at regulating the motorcycle transport sector has continued to elicit sharp reactions from stakeholders from Kakamega County. Governor Fernandes Barrasa has weighed in to support riders in opposing the bill saying he vowed to petition the Senate against passing it into law. Barasa said if passed, the law will stifle the boda boda sector that offers employment to thousands of youths in the country.
According to Kenya News Agency, speaking on Sunday in Shirere ward of Lurambi Constituency, the Governor said there was need to speak about the safety of boda boda riders and not proposing Bills that will cause a major uproar amongst the youth. ‘I want to tell all boda boda operators, I will be at the forefront to lead the demonstration to oppose the proposed Bill because we must empower our youth’, the governor said.
The Public Transport Motorcycle Regulation Bill, 2023 sponsored by Khalwale requires boda boda owners to formalise agreements with the riders, such as payment, working schedule and employment terms. Additionally, article 16 demands that all riders possess valid driving licenses issued by training schools that are accredited by the National Transport Authority (NTSA).
Further Article 16 (2) proposes that NTSA demands training in customer care and etiquette, the capability to handle emergencies and basic motorcycle maintenance and security awareness certificates. Once signed into law, motorcycle operators will not carry two passengers at a time and that the riders will also not be allowed to carry any passenger with luggage weighing over 50 kilograms.