(Courtesy Image)

By Emmanuel Okol

Passenger motorcycle operators popularly known as boda bodas in Katakwi district have resolved not to accept being exploited and misused by politicians for personal gains during the 2026 election campaigns.  

The Katakwi district Boda Boda Association Chairperson Eria Olupot says all members of the group are under strict instructions to resist being lured by political aspirants for mobilization purposes without reaching their offices for consent.  

Olupot made these remarks to this publication during an interview in the boda-boda association office recently while completing the boda-boda stage by Dan Mulalu at Katakwi town council. 

According to Olipot, during political campaign periods, aspirants hire them and use them as pawns to advance their own selfish needs under the pretext of mobilizing voters for their political gains and patronage.  

Olupot says political aspirants can even offer them fuel worth a mere 2000 shillings and subject them to travel lengthy distances which is often time-wasting and compromises their cardinal purpose of making money.     

“As the created association in various districts, we have come up with the knowledge of having our own MP in parliament now,” Olupot said.

The Soroti district Active Boda Boda Association’s Chairperson, Richard Ochuli equally condemned the continued neglect by political leaders who only want them during campaign periods to abandon them after assuming political office or during times when they are faced with problems.   

According to Ochuli, during campaign periods, political aspirants commit various pledges in support of their association, ranging from promising enormous government programs; enhancing their saving schemes, and supporting their children’s education, only to fail to fulfill their pledges once they assume office.

He said the issue of having our leader in parliament can also help in the motivation and issue handling at our level.  

Sam Okello, one of the boda-boda riders, said they're tired of being used by different politicians, and after they leave you without anything.

Meanwhile, Dan Mulalu, the private secretary in the office of the president under mobilization, thanked the boda bodas for the initiative but asked them to share with other members from different areas or sub-regions.

 “I am ready to back them up if the lawmakers support the idea of them having their MP in our parliament of Uganda,” Mulalu said.

However, Geoffrey Omolo chairman LCV Katakwi district in his statement appreciated the boda-bodas for their initiative but called them to be patient as the leaders air it out for guidance.