Electric motorbike operators protest increased maintenance costs

Mombasa,

Tuesday, November 21, 2023

KNA by Shamim Musa / Fatma Said

Mombasa County’s Spiro Motorbike operators have staged a demonstration against the sudden hike in various maintenance costs, especially battery swaps.

The bike operators claim that there has been an increase in fees from Sh 215 to Sh 300 within two months since the shift from thermal to electric motorcycles.

Speaking on behalf of the Spiro Motorbike operators, the General Chairman of County Bodaboda, Samuel Ogutu expressed his dismay at this sudden change.

 “At the launch of Spiro Motorbikes, it was assured that maintenance costs would remain affordable at a fee between Sh 173 and Sh 183 daily, alongside a Sh 215 fee for battery swapping,” Ogutu stated.

However, this price increase was implemented without informing the owners or obtaining their agreement.

Ogutu appealed to the government, emphasising that maintaining the previously agreed-upon prices is crucial, as the abrupt rise would significantly impact the daily work and earnings of the owners.

He noted that accepting this hike might also pave the way for the state to effortlessly raise the daily payments of Sh 173 and Sh 183 by the owners.

Kennedy Ndamwe, the Acting Chairman of Spiro riders in Mombasa and parts of Kwale, said that the agreement was made between the owners and the management.

He highlighted that most owners chose Spiro Motorbikes due to escalating fuel prices, seeking cost-effective alternatives.

However, the increased battery swap costs threaten to reintroduce financial strains similar to those of fuel expenses.

Josephat Musyoka, Spiro Chairman of Changamwe Constituency, highlighted the financial burden caused by the escalated battery swap cost and expensive spare parts compared to thermal motorcycles.

“Engaging owners and stakeholders in discussions before making decisions that contradict the agreed terms is imperative,” Musyoka urged.

 Hillary Siku, a Spiro Motorbike Operator, appealed to management that allowing them to charge the motorcycle would alleviate the numerous restrictions imposed on them.

Regarding the motorcycles’ speed, Siku remarked that the actual speed doesn't meet the promised 70km/h, as informed by the management.

Additionally, he noted that they were not provided with the signed agreement and that the motorcycles lack a log book.

 “We are discontented with the management's decision to increase prices as it significantly affects us,” he concluded.

Courtesy; KNA