By Bonface Mulyungi
Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi has spoken out amid the ongoing standoff between police officers and boda boda operators in Luanda, urging restraint and immediate de-escalation of tensions.
In a statement shared on his social media platforms, the outspoken Linda Mwananchi, principal, called for calm, emphasising the need to restore order in the town.
“I am deeply disturbed by the unfolding situation in Luanda town, Vihiga County, where a confrontation between boda boda operators and the police has escalated into violence, leaving residents in fear and normal activities paralysed,” Osotsi said.
According to the senator, credible reports indicate that the unrest was triggered by enforcement operations targeting motorbike operators.
However, he criticised what he termed as a disproportionate and heavy-handed response by security agencies, including the use of tear gas and excessive force that has endangered lives and livelihoods.
Osotsi strongly condemned what he termed as excessive use of force by police against unarmed civilians, particularly young people who depend on the boda boda sector for their daily income.
“While law enforcement has a duty to maintain order, that mandate must always be exercised within the confines of the law, with utmost restraint, professionalism, and respect for human rights,” he stated.
The senator also expressed concern over reports of injuries, business disruptions, and the closure of shops in Luanda due to fear and uncertainty, warning that such developments risk plunging the county into unnecessary instability.
He emphasised that the boda boda sector remains a critical source of livelihood for many families and urged that enforcement measures be humane, consultative, and sensitive to the socio-economic realities of the people.
Osotsi revealed that he had engaged government officials, including the county commissioner, who assured him that efforts are underway to initiate dialogue with boda boda operators to de-escalate the situation.
He also confirmed holding discussions with boda boda leaders, who have agreed to pursue dialogue.“I therefore call on the relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Interior and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority, to urgently investigate the conduct of the officers involved and ensure accountability for any excesses,” he added.
He further urged police leadership to adopt dialogue-based approaches in resolving disputes and to immediately move to calm the situation.
The senator reaffirmed his solidarity with the residents of Luanda and all those affected, calling for peaceful engagement as the only sustainable path to restoring order.“Let us resolve this matter through dialogue, not force, and work together to restore calm, order, and public confidence in our institutions,” he concluded.
