A recent episode of the political talk show Political Ringside has stirred strong reactions across Nairobi after a frank interview with Ken Onyango. The conversation, hosted by Kevin Waswa, focused on the concerns of boda boda riders in the capital and their growing frustration with the leadership of Johnson Sakaja.
The boda boda sector is one of the largest informal industries in Nairobi. With about 177,000 registered operators in the city and millions more across the country, motorcycle taxis provide daily transport for a large portion of residents while also supporting thousands of families economically.
Onyango explained that the sector has tried to organize itself through 78 different circles, which are associations meant to regulate riders, improve discipline, and coordinate with government agencies such as the National Transport and Safety Authority and the police to enhance safety on the roads.
Despite these efforts, Onyango said riders feel their concerns have not been taken seriously by the county government. He explained that when Sakaja first became governor, many boda boda operators were hopeful that his administration would address their challenges.
Some early steps, including the release of impounded motorcycles and plans to create designated pick-and-drop zones, were welcomed by riders. However, Onyango claimed that many of these initiatives did not continue as expected.
While speaking during the interview, Onyango delivered a harsh assessment of the governor’s overall performance.
“In terms of development in Nairobi… I only give him 2%… two out of 10… he has done nothing… it’s very poor no service.” He said.
He pointed to several problems that residents still face in many parts of the city, especially the continued shortage of clean water.
“People do not have water… if we are still crying over the water… basic things that the governor should have fixed a long time ago.” Added Onyango.
According to Onyango, boda boda riders also struggle with what they describe as harassment by county enforcement officers.
He claimed that riders often face bribes, questionable charges, and uncertainty about where they are allowed to operate. These issues, he said, make it difficult for riders to earn a stable living.
At one point in the discussion, Onyango suggested that the governor had become distant from the struggles of ordinary residents.
“Don’t wake up the sleeping person… the governor… has forgotten… we don’t want to remind someone who is asleep.”
During the conversation, Onyango also mentioned the work of businesswoman Agnes Kagure, who has been active in community programs across the city. He noted that Kagure has supported several initiatives, including water distribution in areas such as Kibera and Kangemi and donating motorcycles to youth groups.
The chairman went further to say that boda boda riders are preparing to take an active role in the next city elections.
“We are going to lead that campaign to make sure he comes home… because Nairobi needs a woman… the one who will come and make sure that she has breastfed everyone.”
He concluded his criticism with another direct remark about the governor’s leadership.
“Sakaja, you have failed… I’m surprised Nairobi County, everywhere you go, you fail, things are not working.”
The interview has sparked debate about the relationship between the county government and the boda boda sector, which remains one of the most visible and influential grassroots groups in the city. Many riders believe their voices should carry more weight in policy discussions because of the role they play in transportation and the urban economy.
The sentiments expressed during the interview highlight how important grassroots groups like boda boda operators could become in shaping the future leadership of Nairobi.
