Kisumu boda boda leaders urge calm over official’s death

Kisumu Bodaboda Association chairperson, Jacob Ogambo addressing the media in Kisumu. Faith Matete 

Leaders of the Kisumu Bodaboda Association have called for calm and restraint, urging politicians, business leaders, and residents to give investigators adequate time to establish the truth behind the death of one of their officials.

George Otobe was killed in Mbale during the Linda Mwananchi rally.

Speaking after a consultative meeting that brought together representatives from Kisumu West, Kisumu Central, Kisumu East, Nyando, Muhoroni, and Nyakach sub-counties, the association’s county chairperson, Jacob Ogambo, said their top priority was to ensure investigations proceed without interference.

“As leaders of the Kisumu Bodaboda Association, we have agreed that what is most important now is to give the government space to investigate. We are urging everyone—politicians, business people, and the public—to step aside and allow professional investigations to take place,” he said.

Ogambo emphasised that the association had resolved to work closely with the national government to ensure a transparent process.

The association said it remains committed to working closely with security agencies to ensure Kisumu County remains peaceful and secure for all residents.

“We cannot interfere with investigations. We must give authorities time and room to do their work. Justice can only be achieved if the process is allowed to move independently and without interference,” he added.

He disclosed that they had engaged Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, who assured them that the government would take charge of the matter and conduct thorough investigations.

“Through PS Raymond Omollo, we have discussed the issue, and we are confident that the government will carry out proper investigations. We are waiting patiently for the outcome,” he said.

The association described the death of their chief security official as a painful loss but maintained that emotions should not overshadow due process.

They described him as a person who was instrumental in promoting discipline, order, and cooperation within the bodaboda sector across Kisumu County.

His commitment to fostering harmony between riders, security agencies and the public, they said, would remain a lasting legacy.

“We have lost our member and leader, and we are deeply hurt. But even in our grief, we are choosing to remain calm and give room for the truth to come out,” Ogambo said.

He warned against politicising the matter, saying such actions could compromise the investigative process.

“This is not the time for politics. This is the time to allow investigators to work freely. We call on everyone to respect the process and avoid statements or actions that could interfere with investigations,” he said.

The association announced plans to convene a broader meeting with bodaboda riders across the county to reinforce the message of unity, patience, and cooperation with authorities.

“We will continue spreading the message of peace and patience. Let the government do its work. We will wait for the official findings and direction,” he concluded.