A discussion on Political Ringside featured Ken Onyango, who strongly argued that William Ruto deserves a second term, pointing to what he sees as practical support for ordinary workers despite the high cost of living.
Speaking from his experience representing boda boda riders across Nairobi and other regions, Onyango said many operators still manage to earn a daily income even as economic pressure remains high.
He described the sector as one that continues to support millions of livelihoods, noting that about 2.7 million riders depend on it. However, he raised concern over fake insurance policies issued by some companies, saying they have led to unfair arrests of riders.
He faulted the Insurance Regulatory Authority for not doing enough to control the problem and urged riders to follow the law and seek justice in court where necessary.
Onyango also pointed to reduced police crackdowns compared to previous administrations, saying this has allowed riders to work with less disruption.
He highlighted changes in motorcycle ownership, especially the shift toward electric bikes, which he said are becoming more accessible.
In the past, riders needed large deposits of up to 40,000 shillings, but now some electric motorcycles require as little as 9,000 shillings.
He added that initiatives involving Kenya Power are helping to lower charging costs, making it easier for riders to operate.
Beyond the boda boda sector, Onyango mentioned infrastructure projects as signs of progress. He referred to road improvements in areas such as Rironi, Mau Summit, and the Thika Superhighway.
He also spoke about affordable housing developments in regions like Taita Taveta, Mombasa, and parts of the Rift Valley, alongside new markets for small traders.
For farmers, Onyango said maize prices have improved to between 3,500 and 4,000 shillings per sack, while fertilizer costs have dropped significantly from about 7,000 to around 2,500 shillings.
He also pointed to plans to extend the Standard Gauge Railway toward Uganda as a long-term economic boost.
He acknowledged ongoing challenges. High taxes and fuel prices continue to strain many households, and occasional fuel shortages disrupt business. Onyango partly blamed oil marketers for these issues and suggested that electric motorcycles could help reduce dependence on fuel.
He dismissed claims that the president should serve only one term, calling such views misleading. He also urged young people to focus less on social media and more on building opportunities, saying the government can only provide an enabling environment.
The discussion also raised concerns about the gap between government promises and the reality many Kenyans face, especially with rising costs of food, rent, and transport.
Onyango agreed that more needs to be done but maintained that the country is moving in the right direction.
As the country slowly shifts focus toward the next election cycle, voices like Onyango’s reflect how different groups are assessing leadership.
For him, the mix of infrastructure growth, reduced pressure on small operators, and support for self-employment justifies giving the current administration more time to deliver.
The conversation on Political Ringside also highlights why the programme continues to stand out as one of the leading political shows in Kenya, providing a platform where real voices from the ground are heard, debated, and brought into the national conversation in a clear and relatable way.
