Osotsi meets Luanda boda boda leaders following deadly riots
By Enock Amukhale, May 10, 2026Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi has held a fact-finding meeting with boda boda leaders in Luanda following May’s deadly protests that claimed two lives.
The consultative meeting on Sunday, May 10, 2026, sought firsthand accounts from riders affected by the unrest as the senator called for calm, justice, and accountability from security agencies.
“It is deeply regrettable that lives were lost. Families are grieving,” Osotsi said. “Law enforcement must uphold the rights of all Kenyans during operations.”
Riots along the Kisumu-Busia highway
The meeting comes days after a police swoop on motorcycles in Luanda sparked riots that shut down the Kisumu-Busia highway for two days.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) confirmed on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, that it is investigating whether officers used excessive force.
IPOA, in their statement, said Luanda Police seized the 20 bikes for verification after multiple complaints of motorcycle theft.
Protesters barricaded the highway, stormed the Luanda Police Station to recover the bikes, and looted a supermarket. Luanda OCPD Richard Siele called reinforcements from Sabatia, Vihiga, and Emuhaya.
Two people died in the chaos, among them DJ Denno. Five protesters were arrested, and seven officers were injured.
Osotsi’s plea to protesters
Osotsi, who had earlier demanded IPOA to probe the shooting incidents in Luanda, told boda leaders he will ensure their grievances are addressed amicably. “The crackdown targeted riders without logbooks, not thieves,” boda leaders said, accusing police of harassment.
In a statement shared on his social media platforms, the outspoken Linda Mwananchi, principal, called for calm, emphasising the need to restore order in the town.
“I am deeply disturbed by the unfolding situation in Luanda town, Vihiga County, where a confrontation between boda boda operators and the police has escalated into violence, leaving residents in fear and normal activities paralysed,” Osotsi said.
IPOA has urged the boda boda operators to use established channels to raise complaints and reminded police to respect the right to peaceful protest.
IPOA Vice Chair Ann Wanjiku Mwangi sent condolences to bereaved families and wished injured officers a recovery.