Nairobi gubernatorial aspirant Irungu Nyakera has called for urgent legislative reforms to curb crimes linked to boda bodas, following the brutal killing of lawyer Kyalo Mbobu.
Nyakera described the incident as a painful reminder of the insecurity faced by Kenyans, warning that criminals are exploiting boda bodas as easy getaway tools.
“The killing of lawyer Kyalo Mbobu is a painful reminder that no Kenyan is safe when gunmen can use boda bodas to strike,” Nyakera said. “We must act firmly with legislation to protect innocent Kenyans, just as other countries have done.”
Citing global examples, Nyakera urged Kenya to adopt stricter regulations.
He pointed out that in Uganda, riders wear reflective vests with boldly printed bike numbers, making it harder for criminals to conceal their identity.
In India and the Philippines, boda bodas are fitted with GPS trackers, enabling police to trace bikes linked to crimes.
Meanwhile, in parts of Latin America, riders are held personally responsible if their motorcycles are used in crime—similar to gun ownership laws.
“Kenya must adopt the same tough measures to keep us safe,” he emphasized. “I urge Parliament to honor Kyalo Mbobu’s memory by rising above politics and passing such legislation without delay.”
Nyakera further called on stakeholders in the transport and security sectors to collaborate in enforcing reforms, noting that boda bodas, while essential to Kenya’s economy, must not be allowed to become tools of terror.
