Boda-boda rider joins presidential race

The coordinator of 'Uganda Kyusa Obulamu' (Boda-boda association), Tonny Lubowa, has declared his intention to stand for the topmost position in the Country.

Lubowa becomes the latest person to announce his presidential bid in the 2021 elections.

While addressing journalists in Lungujja, a suburb in Kampala, in Rubaga division on Monday, Lubowa said it is high time boda-boda riders took up high leadership positions at various levels to serve their country.

"As boda-boda operators, we also have the ability to serve the nation in high political positions. There is nothing stopping us from contesting, which is why I came to change the trend of politics. I urge my fellow friends to take up positions right from Local Council (LC), to the top," he said.

Lubowa stressed that he decided to stand for the presidency, to fight for the common man, especially boda-boda riders and the youth who have for long been sidelined.

 "That is why I am here. We have been sidelined for a long time, compared to other workers. Even the youth have been neglected. We need jobs for our people to improve their livelihoods," he added.

He noted that boda-boda riders make up to 70% of the security system right from the State House, but are always undermined.

Lubowa said unlike other opponents of the government who want to use violence to get power, boda-boda riders are willing to use 'a vote', to change leadership.

"About 200 boda-bodas operators were banned along Namirembe road even before COVID-19. This shows that we have the numbers and power, and 'these people' fear us," he said, adding that the industry is big, but has not been supported by the government.