A Heartwarming Moment in Rongai: Bodaboda Riders Champion Justice

Rongai is a bustling hub, known for its vibrant energy. But today, I witnessed something truly remarkable amidst the usual hustle and bustle – a powerful display of community and justice.

It started with a disturbing scene: a bodaboda rider struck an elderly man and sped off, leaving him injured and bleeding on the roadside. My heart sank. As someone involved with RIACO [a group that champions advicacy against mob justice while steering call for due process], I felt a surge of concern. What would happen next?

What happened next was unexpected. A group of bodaboda riders, witnessing the hit-and-run, immediately gave chase. Driven by a sense of collective responsibility, they pursued the fleeing rider with unwavering determination. I followed, curious and a little apprehensive. My initial instinct was to intervene, but I hesitated. How does one approach a rapidly forming crowd?

They caught up with the rider😬. Things escalated quickly. Slaps were exchanged, and the atmosphere grew tense.😭 A larger crowd gathered, and I feared the situation could spiral into mob justice.

Then, a voice cut through the chaos. One of the riders instrumental in apprehending the hit-and-run rider, speaking with a distinct Maasai accent, delivered a powerful message. "How could you hit someone and leave them to die? We, the bodaboda riders of Rongai, do not condone such behavior. You are giving us a bad name! We will take you to the old man, you will ensure he gets medical attention, and you will make a statement to the police. Baradhuli wewe!![you idiot]!" He punctuated his words with a few more slaps, a raw expression of the community's anger. OUCH!!

It was a turning point. I was struck by the clarity and force of his words. He channeled the crowd's anger into a demand for justice, not vengeance. The crowd, initially charged with emotion, seemed to respond to his call for order.  

The bodaboda rider was handed over to the police officers stationed nearby (a common sight around Cleanshelf supermarket for those familiar with the route). The injured man received the care he needed. A potentially volatile situation was diffused, thanks to the quick thinking and moral compass of a few individuals.

As I journeyed back to Mlolongo, I felt a renewed sense of hope. It was a testament to the fact that even in chaotic situations, clear-headed Kenyans can rise to the occasion and champion justice over mob rule. It was a powerful reminder of the strength of community and the importance of holding each other accountable.

On a lighter note, I learned a personal lesson that day: never go about the streets on an empty stomach😂! My hunger pangs might have slightly clouded my judgment. Had I been thinking more clearly, I would have gotten the contact information of that bodaboda rider who spoke up and connected him with RIACO.