Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale has proposed to withdraw the Public Transport (Motorcycle Regulation) Bill 2023 following significant backlash from boda boda riders. The bill aimed to formalize agreements between motorcycle owners and riders, mandate accredited training for operators, and enforce stricter safety measures, including the prohibition of carrying more than one passenger at a time and restrictions on luggage weight. These provisions were met with strong opposition from the riding community, leading Senator Khalwale to reconsider the bill’s passage.

In response to the proposed regulations, Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa expressed his support for the riders, stating his intention to petition the Senate against the bill. He emphasized the importance of empowering youth through the boda boda sector and criticized the bill for potentially stifling the livelihoods of thousands of young people.

The bill’s provisions included mandatory training for riders in safe and defensive riding techniques, traffic laws, customer care, emergency handling, basic motorcycle maintenance, and security awareness. It also proposed fines and imprisonment for various offenses, such as operating without a valid license or carrying more than one passenger.

The widespread opposition from boda boda operators and stakeholders has prompted Senator Khalwale to reconsider the bill, highlighting the challenges in balancing regulatory measures with the livelihoods of those dependent on the sector.