City Manager sends tough warning to matatu, boda boda operators

By Peter Ochieng

Kisumu City Manager Michael Abala Wanga on Thursday came out 'guns blazing,' literally speaking.

Adressing Kisumu residents during the 60th Madaraka Day celebrations at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Sports Complex, Wanga warned matatu operators against violating a notice which barred them from accessing Kisumu's Central Business District (CBD).

"We had controlled matatus from accessing the CBD, but now I see that madness coming back," said Wanga.

The City Manager said he will issue another order on Monday barring matatus from accessing the CBD, before implementation of the notice takes effect a week later.

In addition, he said no boda boda shades will be allowed in Milimani estate.

He said insecurity cannot be allowed to crop up in the area, owing to 'high end local and international' personalities that stay and work in Milimani.

He linked boda boda riders to insecurity not only in Milimani, but other parts of Kisumu.

Wanga urged police to round up boda boda operators found erecting shades in the area.

"We cannot allow Milimani to be an area of thuggery and muggings," thundered Wanga.

The City Manager who spoke on behalf of Kisumu governor Anyang' Nyong'o, addressed the gathering after a section of speakers had raised security concerns in Kisumu.

Acting Kisumu County Commissioner Hussein Alasow said they are joining forces with relevant stakeholders, to effectively deal with suspected criminals.

"We want Kisumu to remain peaceful. It is the most beautiful City in the Country and we do want it to remain secure."

The celebrations in Kisumu witnessed low turnout from residents.