Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has publicly apologized for the dumping of garbage outside Stima Plaza, Kenya Power’s headquarters, during a dispute between the county government and the utility company.
Unplanned Incident, Immediate Cleanup Ordered
Speaking at a press briefing at City Hall, Sakaja clarified that the incident was not premeditated and was a result of an accidental tipping of garbage by one of the county’s trucks. He assured the public that the mess was cleared within 30 minutes and ordered the immediate removal of all garbage trucks that had obstructed entrances to the Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) offices.
“It was unfortunate that one of the trucks tipped garbage. That was not the intention, and that is not how Nairobi County operates. The matter is being addressed internally,” Sakaja stated.
Hostilities End as County Restores Water Supply
In a bid to de-escalate tensions, Sakaja directed the restoration of water supply to Stima Plaza, which had been cut off as part of City Hall’s retaliation over unpaid wayleave fees. He emphasized that all disputes between the county government and KPLC would now be handled through dialogue.
“The first step is to end hostilities and resolve the issues amicably. Water supply has been restored, and access to the building is no longer blocked,” he added.
Ruto’s Intervention in the City Hall-KPLC Dispute
President William Ruto, through Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, intervened in the standoff by convening a meeting between Sakaja and Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi. The discussions focused on finding a lasting resolution to the KSh 3 billion electricity bill owed by City Hall and the KSh 4.8 billion wayleave fees claimed from KPLC.
“We have agreed that these commercial disputes will be addressed between myself and Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi,” Sakaja confirmed.
Root of the Dispute: Unpaid Bills and Retaliatory Actions
The standoff between Nairobi County and KPLC stemmed from a long-standing electricity bill of KSh 3 billion owed by the county government. In response to power disconnection, City Hall retaliated by dumping garbage outside Stima Plaza, causing operational disruptions and a foul stench.
Additionally, the county launched a crackdown on KPLC’s fibre optic cables, accusing the company of failing to pay wayleave fees amounting to KSh 4.8 billion.
As both parties seek a resolution, the focus now shifts to dialogue and negotiations to prevent future disputes that disrupt essential services in the city.