Motorist Association raises alarm on unruly boda boda riders as police turn blind eye

In a statement on Monday, the Association faulted boda boda riders for harassing drivers on Kenyan roads and their actions still go unchecked.

It argued that riders freely flaunt traffic laws in full sight of police officers and action is never taken.

"They ride against oncoming traffic, even at night, blinding motorists with full beams, flickering coloured lights and forcing dangerous swerves," the statement read in part.

"They cut corners at roundabouts, ride on footpaths, join highways recklessly without stopping, switch lanes without indicating, overtake on the wrong side, and carry unprotected passengers at night without any reflective clothing."

They argued that these actions endanger the lives of motorists and in the occurrence of an accident they flee.

"When crashes occur, they mob drivers, demand arbitrary compensation, assault them, and at times even steal from them," the statement added.

The Association also argued that the riders have been torching cars and attacking motorists, yet security authorities have remained tight-lipped.

"The police fail even to issue warning statements condemning such actions. The silence looks like endorsement, and that is unacceptable," the statement added.

"Authorities only act when a VIP is affected, but when ordinary citizens are insulted, beaten, robbed, or have their vehicles torched, silence reigns."

The Association therefore wants all boda boda associations to take responsibility and take action on members found disregarding public order.

It added that the sector must know how to coexist with other motorists lest they continue clashing with drivers.

"If they want their sector respected, they must show respect first - respect for the law, respect for other road users, and respect for their own profession."