Parliament seeks public views on motorcycle regulation bill amid industry pushback
The National Assembly’s Committee on Transport and Infrastructure has begun public hearings and stakeholder engagement on the proposed Public Transport Bill amid rising criticism in the boda boda sector.
The bill, (Motorcycle Regulation) Bill, 2023 (Senate Bill No. 38), seeks to streamline the motorcycle transport industry by enhancing safety, accountability, and operational standards.
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However, the move has been met with strong opposition from major industry players, including the Boda Boda Safety Association of Kenya (BAK) and the Digital Boda Drivers and Deliveries Association.
While appearing before the Committee, chaired by Ndia Member of Parliament (MP) George Kariuki, the associations submitted their memorandum describing the Bill as fundamentally flawed, overly bureaucratic, and financially unsustainable.
The associations argued that the bill duplicates existing mandates of the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), overlooks the constitutional roles of county governments, and risks politicising the sector by handing regulatory powers to county-controlled boards.
They raised concerns over the creation of 47 county-level Motorcycle Transport and Safety Boards, mandatory SACCO membership, and vaguely defined clauses such as “prescribed colour” and “approved devices,” warning that these could lead to corruption and monopolistic practices.
“The bill is a solution in search of a problem,” the associations stated.
They also warned that its enactment could lead to increased costs, regulatory confusion, and economic harm to riders.
Committee’s request
While supporting the need for regulation, committee members urged the associations to propose amendments rather than reject the bill outright.
“You have an opportunity to shape laws that work for you,” Komingoi Kibet said. “Don’t just reject; recommend.”
Mwangi Kiunjuri echoed the need for balance, urging a strengthening of existing institutions like the NTSA rather than establishing new, potentially redundant structures.
Security was another key issue raised, with MPs Abdi Saney and Hussein Weytan highlighting the increasing use of motorcycles in criminal activities, including drug trafficking and attacks on the public.
The Office of the Inspector-General of Police proposed a multi-agency coordination mechanism involving NTSA, the police, the Council of Governors, and boda boda associations to ensure effective oversight and enforcement.
The Committee is expected to continue receiving feedback from stakeholders nationwide before finalising the draft bill.
