Raila asks boda boda riders to ferry voters free of charge on election day
Azimio - One Kenya coalition presidential candidate Raila Odinga has urged the youth to turn up in large numbers and cast their votes in the August 9 general election.
Speaking at a meeting with boda boda riders at Nyayo Stadium on Monday, July 25, the ODM party leader urged the operators to ensure every voter casts their vote in the much-awaited polls.
He urged the operators to give free rides to the disabled as one way of encouraging them to turn out and vote.
"I want all boda boda riders to ferry all the disabled people in Kenya to polling stations on August 9 to cast their votes for free," Raila stated during the meeting attended by representatives from Bodaboda Safety Association of Kenya (BAK).
At the same time, he promised to prioritise policies meant to promote the boda boda sector, including reducing the cost of motorcycles.
"We will establish a Ksh1 billion revolving loan fund for operators in the boda boda sector as well as promote self-regulation and management of the sector," Raila said.
In an apparent reference to the recent crackdown targeting rogue operators, the former prime minister urged the authorities not to victimize all operators on misdeeds of a few elements.
"We have a plan to transform the sector. We urge the current government to treat riders with respect because they are people who provide essential services," he added.
"We are going to reform the system to convert a police force into a police service for the people of Kenya."
The ODM party boss was in Nairobi in a charm offensive to fill his vote basket ahead of the August 9 contest pitting him and Kenya Kwanza presidential flag bearer.
Raila meets Muslim women
He also met a group of Muslim women who endorsed his bid for the country's top job during a meeting held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC).
Yesterday, Raila and his running mate Martha Karua intensified their campaigns in the vote-rich central region.
Addressing rallies in Tharaka Nithi and Embu counties, the duo pleaded with residents to elect them, saying their team is credible, trustworthy and best suited to succeed President Uhuru Kenyatta.
“We offer you a chance to bring economic liberation to Kenya and transform the lives of our people. Vote for Azimio and bring real change,” said Raila while addressing crowds at Marimanti in Tharaka Nithi and Embu town.
