Central Kenya Boda Boda riders have sparked a debate within the region after decrying they should benefit from wearing politicians-branded reflector jackets. The riders threatened not to wear the branded merchandise, stating that it does not benefit them in any way. They demanded payment from politicians saying that they would not do free marketing for the politicians. 

Some riders noted that their clients were inquisitive of details that appeared on their branded reflectors. One rider stated that he no longer wears branded merchandise because he is tired of answering to clients. They have further warned that any leader or politician who wished to distribute branded jackets to prepare to pay for the service. 

The boda boda industry, which highly comprises the youth, has always been used as a marketing agency for politicians during political campaigns. The trend is most common in rural areas. Politicians tend to woo them with reflector jackets as awards because they know of their importance in their line of work. Politicians have taken advantage of their influence and branded the reflectors with their names, seats they are vying for, and the political parties they are vying under.