Boda Boda Riders Speak Out Ahead of June 25 Nairobi Protests

As tensions rise ahead of the planned nationwide protests on June 25, the Boda Boda Safety Association of Kenya has come out strongly to disassociate its members from any acts of violence or political manipulation linked to the demonstrations. 

In a bold and emotional statement issued on Friday, June 20, the association clarified that while they support every Kenyan’s constitutional right to protest, they will not be used as pawns in any political games that put their safety, and livelihood, at risk. 

“We are not part of that destruction. We are not tools for political games. We are hustlers, and we ride for peace, dignity, and survival,” the statement read. 

The association acknowledged that the right to protest, as enshrined in Article 37 of the Kenyan Constitution, must be exercised peacefully and lawfully. 

“We respect the Constitution. We believe in Article 37, the right to assemble and protest. But only if it is peaceable and unarmed. No stone, no fire, no looting. Because once violence starts, the Constitution walks away. And so do we.” 

This message comes at a crucial time, especially after violent incidents marred the June 17 protests. Two motorcycles were set ablaze, and a rider was left nursing serious injuries after angry demonstrators turned on them, accusing them of disrupting the rally. 

The association decried the recurring violence that often leaves boda boda riders caught in the crossfire. They emphasized that the riders’ livelihoods depend on a stable environment, and any chaos or blocked roads directly impacts their ability to earn a living. 

“We urge the Government: protect our roads, protect our bikes, protect our lives. We are not looking for favours, we’re asking for fairness,” they said. 

Reasserting their role in society, the statement highlighted the contributions of boda boda riders to the Kenyan economy, from providing emergency transport to serving millions of commuters daily. 

“Boda boda riders have built a name in this country. We help in emergencies, support families, and move the economy. We will not be reduced to pawns in someone else’s war.” 

In a stern warning, the association condemned anyone planning to disrupt boda boda operations during the upcoming demonstrations. 

“To those planning to disrupt our routes and risk our safety: you don’t speak for us. You don’t care about our pain. Don’t hide your chaos behind our helmets.” 

As the country braces for another round of demonstrations, the message from the boda boda community is clear: they ride for peace, not politics, and any threats to their security or livelihood will not be tolerated.