By Anne Nyambura
Operations at Kenya Power’s (KPLC) headquarters, Stima Plaza, were disrupted on Monday morning after the Nairobi City County government dumped heaps of garbage outside the facility. The dramatic incident stems from a long-standing financial dispute between the two entities, involving billions of shillings in unpaid dues.
According to KPLC’s General Manager in charge of commercial services and sales, Engineer Rose Mary Oduor, the county government owes the power utility a staggering KSh 3 billion in unpaid electricity bills. This debt had previously led KPLC to disconnect power in various county-managed facilities, though supply was restored last Friday, February 21, after an agreement was reached.
However, the Nairobi City County government has defended its controversial move, asserting that it was an enforcement measure to compel KPLC to settle outstanding Wayleave fees amounting to KSh 4.83 billion. Acting County Secretary Godfrey Akumali stated that the power utility has failed to remit the required fees, which are meant to be paid for the use of public land for electricity infrastructure.
Adding to the county’s grievances, Akumali accused KPLC of illegally leasing its electricity poles to internet service providers for fiber-optic cable installations without remitting the necessary revenue to the county government. He argued that this has denied the county its rightful earnings from infrastructure use.
The garbage dumping at Stima Plaza not only disrupted operations but also subjected workers to unbearable stench and an unsanitary work environment. Some KPLC employees further complained of continued harassment and intimidation from county authorities, citing additional measures such as the disconnection of water supply to the facility.
The dispute has exposed the fragile relationship between the two public institutions, raising concerns about governance, accountability, and financial management. It remains to be seen how the standoff will be resolved, as both parties stand their ground in what has become a high-stakes battle over billions of shillings.
Authorities and industry stakeholders are now calling for an amicable resolution to prevent further disruptions that could affect both service delivery and public welfare.
