President William Ruto has directed the immediate release of over 9,000 motorcycles detained at police stations across the country without links to criminal activity.
Speaking during a meeting with boda boda leaders from all sub-counties at State House on Thursday, August 7, the President said Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo and Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja must oversee the release process within seven days.
“I gave amnesty to owners of motorcycles that have been detained at police stations and are not linked to criminal cases,” said the President. “The Ministry of Interior will work with the Inspector-General to ensure their release this coming week.”
The Head of State lauded boda boda riders as key contributors to Kenya’s economy and vowed to support the sector’s growth through proper regulation.
“Boda Boda operators are legitimate entrepreneurs whose businesses must be supported. We will work with all stakeholders to enact a law that embraces self-regulation to help the sector grow,” Ruto added.
The government also plans to back a new legal framework to promote self-regulation through rider associations and SACCOs.
Ruto’s directive comes amid renewed legislative attention to the sector. Two weeks ago, Parliament announced it would proceed with the Public Transport Motorcycle Regulation Bill, 2025, aimed at streamlining operations in the boda boda industry.
The bill, sponsored by Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale, seeks to introduce mandatory SACCO membership, standardized training, and strict county-level safety regulations for all operators.
Khalwale had sought to withdraw the bill following public concerns, but MPs rejected the request. National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula ruled that the bill would proceed following a majority vote.
If passed, the law would also establish County Motorcycle Transport and Safety Boards to oversee registration, training, and safety enforcement. The bill proposes fines of up to Ksh100,000 or one-year jail terms for riders involved in criminal conspiracies, and Ksh20,000 fines for those who ride on pedestrian walkways.
Parliament has promised to open the bill to public participation before enactment.
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