A Nairobi-based boda boda (bike) operator shared a memorable moment in his life when he had the chance of rescuing Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka during anti-government protests in 2023.
Speaking to the press on August 9, Mike Barasa narrated how he ended up rescuing Kalonzo in Kariobangi’s Kwa Chief area amid a barrage from the police targeting an Azimio caravan leading the demos.
The operator went ahead and revealed how Kalonzo was forced out of his vehicle and left stranded after his convoy sped off.
“I once attended protests called by Raila Odinga at Juja Road. We were beaten severely, and I rescued his excellency Kalonzo Musyoka at the chief’s camp in Huruma,” Mike recalled.
“We were both beaten by the police, he was forced out of his car and his convoy sped off, I hid with him somewhere.”
In his narration, Mike said his caring and helpful nature would not allow him to leave someone who is hurt behind, noting that he will always figure out a way to help.
“I have a caring heart, I would never leave someone who is hurt behind, I can’t, even colleagues at my workstation know it. No matter how badly injured someone is, I will figure out a way of helping them,” he added.
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Biker Who Rescued Kalonzo Aids Police Brutality Victims
Mike caught the attention of a section of Kenyans after he was pictured using his motorcycle to rescue injured victims during the Nane nane protests on August 8.
Despite the risks, Barasa used his bike as an ambulance, transporting victims of police brutality to the hospital.
In a video seen by The Kenya Times, Barasa is seen condemning police brutality and openly cautioning an officer against being inhumane to peaceful protesters as he walked past an injured protester.
Thereafter he instructs a crowd that had gathered around to help the victim get on the bike so he can rush him to the nearest medical Centre to get help.
“Put him here, this is bad, this is really bad,” Mike remarked.
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Government on Boda Boda Operators
Mike touched on the government neglecting the boda-boda sector stating that they do not recognize it as a job like any other.
“In the boda boda sector, the government has been tough on us, they do not recognize that this is a job that people depend on to feed their families,” he said.
“This bike that you see here feeds a lot of people, I have kids who are in school, and this is my only source of living. I am dependent on this job.”
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