IThe National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Transport has raised concerns over a section of the Public Transport (Motorcycle Regulations) Bill, 2025, following submissions from key stakeholders.

The committee, chaired by Ndia MP George Kariuki, met on Thursday, September 25, to deliberate on the contentious Senate Bill No. 38 of 2023, sponsored by Kakamega Senator and Senate Majority Whip, Boni Khalwale.

The Bill seeks to provide a legal framework for the regulation of motorcycles used in public transport, with emphasis on safety, registration, and local-level governance.

Transport Ministry Flags Clause 36

During the sitting, the Ministry of Roads and Transport voiced its backing for most provisions of the Bill but warned against Clause 36, which proposes repealing Sections 21 and 22 of the NTSA Act.

These sections currently provide for County Transport and Safety Committees (CTSCs).

“The repeal of CTSCs and introduction of new County Transport Boards would only duplicate roles and lead to unnecessary expenditure, given NTSA’s investments in the existing structures,” the Ministry cautioned in its submission.

Cooperatives Ministry Pushes for Inclusivity

The Ministry of Co-operatives and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Development recommended that boda boda cooperative societies be permitted to integrate into larger cooperative structures.

Officials argued that such integration would enhance representation and service access, but warned it would also add financial and governance responsibilities.

They further urged lawmakers to expand the Bill to include tuk-tuk operators for inclusivity.

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) focused on tightening compliance mechanisms. It recommended proof of tax compliance as a requirement for commercial motorcycle registration, in addition to clarifying ambiguous clauses in the draft law.

KRA also called for clear definitions of the “County Executive Member responsible for transport” and suggested that both riders and passengers be required to sit astride motorcycles, with exemptions made for persons with disabilities.

Private Riders Push for Exemptions

Meanwhile, the Private Bikers Association of Kenya urged Parliament to draw a clear line between private and commercial motorcycles.

“Private motorcycles used for personal or recreational purposes should be excluded from the Bill’s scope. Subjecting them to commercial requirements would be unfair and burdensome,” the Association argued.

Lawmakers to Reconcile Divergent Views

Committee members acknowledged the need for structured regulation of the motorcycle sector but noted the divergent positions.

“While the Bill provides a much-needed framework, some provisions risk creating overlap and unnecessary bureaucracy,” one lawmaker remarked.

The Committee is expected to consolidate the submissions before tabling its recommendations in the National Assembly.

The outcome will determine whether the Bill proceeds in its current form or undergoes significant amendments to address stakeholders’ concerns.

Ndia MP George Kariuki. PHOTO/ Parliament of Kenya, Facebook.