Governor Bii urged to resolve row between county askaris and boda boda riders

Tension remained high between Uasin Gishu County askaris and boda boda riders following protests that disrupted business in Eldoret city on Friday.

The county askaris, who usually operate on the streets, withdrew amid fears they may be attacked by the boda boda riders who are complaining of harassment.

County officials are making efforts to resolve the conflict that has been boiling for a long time, leading to the Friday protests.

The riders had blocked the main Uganda highway, and police had to use tear gas to disperse them.

Uasin Gishu County police commander Benjamin Mwanthi said order has been restored in most areas but officers have been deployed to help keep peace.

The boda boda riders were protesting after one of them was beaten up and injured by county askaris.

Mwanthi termed as false reports that the injured rider had died, sparking the riots.

“The rider recorded a statement with the police after he was treated and discharged. We are investigating his action for any necessary action,” he said.

Mwanthi said no property was looted or destroyed during the riots but one officer and a county official were injured earlier when the boda boda riders clashed with the county askaris.

He cautioned the boda boda riders to stop taking the law into their hands whenever they have grievances.

“We have structured ways to communicate and deal with any issues instead of resorting to such disruptions,” Mwanthi said.
Efforts by Uasin Gishu Deputy Governor Evans Kapkea to address the riders failed after he was turned away.

The protesting riders were demanding to be addressed by Governor Jonathan Bii.

“We are tired of being harassed by the county askaris and that is why we have decided to protest,” a rider said.

Public service and administration executive Joseph Lagat asked the riders to dialogue with the county whenever there were disputes.

“We have worked well with the boda boda people and we will engage in talks to ensure smooth operations moving forward,” he said.

Bii is expected to meet the leadership of the boda boda riders to resolve the row with the county askaris.