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Message: [QUOTE="Nehanda, post: 28854, member: 2262"] Mike Sonko, who once ran Nairobi as governor, became the new patron for groups representing 2.5 million motorcycle and three-wheeled vehicle operators across Kenya. Leaders from various savings groups picked him up during a meeting at his home in Machakos. Sonko promised to help these riders deal with the problems they face every day. He plans to work directly with national officials, local governments, police, lawmakers, and insurance companies. He wants to fix slow insurance payments and make parts easier to find. "From here forward, we'll talk with government departments, counties, insurance companies, and banks that give loans to motorcycle operators about parts shortages and other big problems," Sonko said. The rider groups believe he can fight for what they need and tackle issues hurting their business. Their meeting included talk about a new bill from Senator Boni Khalwale that would change how motorcycles operate. This proposed law aims to create fresh rules for signing up, running, and managing motorcycle services at the county level. The riders worry certain parts of the bill might hurt how they make money. They stressed the need for public input before any law passes. Sonko agreed to meet with Senator Khalwale to discuss rider concerns about the proposed changes and other matters they care about. Nehemiah Kiwa leads the national transport union and pointed out these 2.5 million riders helped elect the current government. "We deserve fair treatment from both national and county leaders. We need people to hear and respect us. We trust Sonko will support us," Kiwa explained. Charles Gichira, who heads another rider association, called for changes to make the industry more professional, asking officials to stop treating riders like criminals. The groups feel frustrated about the lack of funds for rider training despite the huge amount of money transport brings to Kenya. "We lead the country in road crashes because we lack proper training. We need organized training programs, and we believe Sonko can help make that happen," said a rider leader named Onyango. Calvis Okumu, who represents digital delivery riders, talked about the unfair treatment they experience regularly. "People force us to park our delivery bikes far from neighborhoods just because we ride motorcycles. This unfair treatment must end. Sonko, please help us get fair treatment for all riders," Okumu asked. The associations created a six-person team led by Nehemiah Kiwa to handle daily matters under Sonko's guidance as their patron. [/QUOTE]

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