A section of boda boda riders in Adjumani district have petitioned the Resident District Commissioner (RDC), citing abuse of office and failure to conduct elections by the current leadership of the District Boda Boda Association.
In a formal petition dated June 14, 2025, and addressed to the RDC’s office, the aggrieved members expressed frustration over what they described as “continued impunity and lack of transparency” by the current District Boda Boda Chairperson.
The riders accuse the chairperson of overstaying in office beyond the expiry of his term without organizing fresh elections, denying members their constitutional right to choose leaders democratically.
“There has been no communication or effort from the chairperson to organize new elections. This has resulted in discontent, loss of trust, and a breakdown in the leadership structure,” the petition reads.
In addition to the failure to organize elections, the chairperson is also accused of abusing office for personal gain. The petitioners allege that he has used his position to intimidate dissenting voices within the association, failed to account for funds meant for the welfare of riders, and operated in secrecy without transparency or accountability.
The riders further accuse the chairperson of ethical misconduct, citing his recent participation in a political election while still holding his position in the boda boda association a move they say creates a conflict of interest and violates leadership norms.
In light of these grievances, the petitioners are demanding the immediate resignation of the current chairperson, the organization of fresh, free, and fair elections within one week, and the formation of an independent committee to oversee the electoral process.
“We believe your office has the mandate to ensure justice, accountability, and democratic governance at all levels,” the petitioners state in their letter to the RDC.
Ecima Emmanuel, the leader of the aggrieved boda boda riders, urged other stakeholders to get involved in restructuring the leadership of the boda boda association.
After receiving their petition, Adjumani Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Emmanuel Okwar, promised to follow up on the matter and restore calm.
“We have received your petition and will review it thoroughly. A meeting will be convened within two days. We acknowledge your concerns as a government, we uphold democracy and fairness, and it is your right to demand regular elections,” Okwar stated.
The petition reflects growing concerns among boda boda operators in the region, who remain a critical part of the district’s transport sector but often face organizational and leadership challenges. The district has more than 2000 bodaboda riders.
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