President Ruto Orders Release of 9,000+ Impounded Motorcycles, Pledges Tax Cuts to Lower Prices
In a major move aimed at supporting Kenya’s boda boda industry, President William Ruto has ordered the immediate release of over 9,000 motorcycles held by police without active cases. The directive came after a high-stakes meeting with boda boda riders at State House, where the President also promised to push for tax cuts that could slash motorcycle prices by up to KSh 10,000.
9,000 Motorcycles to Be Released in One Week
President Ruto gave Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo and Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome a strict seven-day ultimatum to ensure all impounded bikes—seized without pending legal cases—are returned to their owners. This decision is expected to bring relief to thousands of riders who have long complained about arbitrary police seizures.
“We cannot have bodabodas held indefinitely without justification,” Ruto stated. “These riders are hardworking Kenyans who deserve fair treatment.”
Tax Cuts to Reduce Motorcycle Prices?
The President further claimed that the current market price of motorcycles is KSh 95,000—not KSh 190,000—and vowed to lobby Parliament to remove certain taxes, potentially lowering costs by an additional KSh 10,000.
However, fact-checking reveals that prices vary widely depending on the model. Popular brands like the Honda Ace 110 retail at around KSh 105,000, while the more powerful Honda Ace 150 goes for KSh 193,000. Industry experts suggest that eliminating the 35% import duty could reduce prices by 10-20%, but skeptics argue that recent tax hikes in the Finance Bill 2024 make such promises difficult to fulfill.
Mixed Reactions: Hope vs. Skepticism
Boda boda riders have welcomed the announcement, with many hopeful that cheaper bikes and fewer police harassments will boost their earnings.
“If the President keeps his word, this is a game-changer,” said John Mwangi, a Nairobi-based rider.
However, financial analysts and opposition leaders remain cautious, calling Ruto’s statements “political rhetoric” meant to appeal to the influential boda boda voting bloc ahead of the 2027 elections.
“Motorcycle prices are not uniformly KSh 95,000 as claimed,” said economist Linda Muriuki. “While tax cuts could help, the recent Finance Bill increased other levies, so the net benefit may be minimal.”
What’s Next?
With over 1.5 million boda bodas operating in Kenya, the sector remains a critical part of the economy—and a key political constituency. If Ruto delivers on his promises, it could significantly ease the financial burden on riders. But if the tax cuts fail to materialize, the move may be seen as another unfulfilled pledge.
For now, all eyes are on the Interior Ministry and police to implement the bike release directive within the seven-day deadline.
