MPs Intervene In Kenya Power And Nairobi County Standoff
The ongoing dispute between Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) and the Nairobi City County government has drawn the attention of the National Assembly Committee on Energy, prompting lawmakers to intervene.
The standoff, which escalated after KPLC disconnected electricity to Nairobi County offices over unpaid bills, saw the county government retaliate by dumping garbage at the utility firm’s headquarters, blocking sewer lines, and cutting off water supply to its buildings.
During a committee session, MPs condemned the county’s actions, describing them as unprofessional and uncivilized.
“We saw a very ugly standoff between Kenya Power and the Nairobi County government yesterday. Can the Cabinet Secretary assure this committee that the matter is being addressed?” asked MP Tom Odege.
Mulanya criticized the county’s response, calling on Governor Johnson Sakaja to take responsibility.
“Nairobi County should be responsible, even when disputes arise. What they did yesterday is regrettable in any civilized country,” he remarked.
In response, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi informed the committee that he had engaged Governor Sakaja to prevent further escalation and restore normalcy.
“I spoke with Governor Sakaja yesterday to stop the situation from getting worse. We are working towards an amicable resolution,” said Wandayi.
The CS clarified that Kenya Power does not owe Nairobi County any unpaid water bills and dismissed claims of outstanding wayleave charges, terming them illegal under the Energy Act of 2019.
“No public body shall charge levies on public energy infrastructure without the consent of the Cabinet Secretary in writing. As we speak, no such consent exists,” he emphasized.
Committee Chairperson Vincent Musyoka condemned the county’s retaliatory actions, terming them criminal. He urged counties to meet their financial obligations without resorting to drastic measures.
“Disconnect everyone who is not paying their bills, even if it means switching off the governor’s office. This committee is committed to supporting you in enforcing payments,” he declared.
The committee has now demanded an apology from the Nairobi County government and urged the Ministry of Energy to ensure that all public institutions settle their electricity bills as required.