Boda Boda riders distance themselves from June 25 protests, call for calm
They cautioned against being used as pawns in political games, warning that any chaos would only worsen their economic struggles.
Boda boda operators across the country have distanced themselves from the planned June 25 protests, firmly declaring they will not participate in any political demonstrations that could disrupt livelihoods and put lives at risk.
Through a statement released on Friday, the Boda Boda Safety Association of Kenya said its members would not be drawn into the planned mass action set to mark one year since the deadly 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests.
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They cautioned against being used as pawns in political games, warning that any chaos would only worsen their economic struggles.
“We have seen the threats of chaos. We've heard the calls for protests and riots on June 25, 2025. But we say this clearly: 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.
This declaration comes amid growing calls from opposition leaders, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, urging the public to stay away from work next Wednesday in honour of those killed during last year’s anti-government demonstrations.
The leaders have also declared June 25 a symbolic public holiday dedicated to fallen Gen Z protesters.
The opposition insists the planned events will be peaceful and focused on remembrance. But the boda boda association said its members fear a repeat of past violence, which has led to injuries, losses and destruction of property, particularly affecting riders.
“One day of riots is one day of hunger in our homes. When roads are blocked, we don’t earn. When shops close, customers disappear,” the association said.
The group noted that many of its members start work before sunrise to earn a living, repay loans, and provide for their families.
Disruptions, they said, come at a high cost.
“When police clash with rioters, it's our bikes that get burned and our people that get caught in the crossfire,” they said.
While expressing support for the constitutional right to peaceful protest under Article 37, the riders denounced any violence, warning that violence undermines the rights being exercised.
“No stone, no fire, no looting. Because once violence starts, the constitution walks away. And so do we,” the statement added.
They urged the government to guarantee their safety and protect them from harm during the protests.
“We are not looking for favours – just fairness,” they said.
“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.”
The riders concluded by reaffirming their essential contribution to the economy and society, urging calm and continued productivity.
“We have built a name in this country by helping in emergencies, supporting families, and moving the economy. Let Nairobi move. Let Kenyans work. Let the hustle continue.”
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