Transport activities in Bungoma town were temporarily paralyzed following a protest by Tuk Tuk operators who barricaded the road near the governor’s office to raise concerns over harassment by Kanduyi Assistant County Commissioner (ACC) Oluoch.
Led by their chairman, Wesonga Nabongo, the Tuk Tuk drivers expressed frustration over what they described as persistent interference in their operations. The drivers accused the ACC of unfairly chasing them away from their designated parking areas, which has severely impacted their livelihoods.
“We’ve been operating peacefully, but since the County government began constructing the Kanduyi bus park, we’ve had to relocate to the roadside as we wait for customers. The ACC has constantly been asking us to leave, which is creating unnecessary chaos,” said Wesonga. He highlighted that the Tuk Tuk operators had always maintained a cordial relationship with the bodaboda riders, who have their own parking stage nearby. However, he added that the increased harassment was threatening to escalate tensions between the two groups.
Joel Barasa, another Tuk Tuk rider, echoed Wesonga’s sentiments and called on the Bungoma Governor to intervene through the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Town Planning. Barasa demanded that the chief officer ensure they are not subjected to further harassment, warning that they would stop paying taxes if their concerns remain unaddressed.
The Tuk Tuk operators have also called for disciplinary action against the ACC, urging that the County Commissioner take action against the official for overstepping his mandate, as they argue that matters of town planning fall under the jurisdiction of the County government.
