The Commission on Administrative Justice, commonly known as the Ombudsman, has expressed serious concerns regarding the ongoing dispute between the County Government of Nairobi and Kenya Power.
The standoff, which intensified on Monday, has led to disruptive enforcement actions, including blocking access to Kenya Power officers at Stima Plaza in Nairobi, cutting off water supply, sealing sewer lines, and towing vehicles.
According to the Ombudsman, these actions are counterproductive and significantly hinder the delivery of essential public services to citizens, and should not be allowed to continue any longer.
“The Commission recognizes the legitimate right of the County Government of Nairobi to collect outstanding land rates and enforce compliance with statutory obligations. However, the manner in which this dispute is being handled raises serious concerns about administrative fairness, proportionality, and the potential violation of citizens’ rights to access essential services,” stated CAJ Chairperson Charles Dulo in a media statement on Tuesday evening.
Dulo pointed out that the disruption of Kenya Power’s operations, as a key service provider, has far-reaching consequences for the public, affecting businesses, households, and critical institutions that depend on a reliable power supply.
The Ombudsman maintains that such disputes should be resolved through dialogue, mediation, and adherence to the principles of good governance and administrative justice.
“In light of the above, the Office of the Ombudsman has reached out to both institutions with an invitation to mediate this dispute on 19 March 2025,” said Dulo.
Pending the planned mediation, he urged the County Government of Nairobi and Kenya Power to act responsibly by immediately halting any actions that disrupt service delivery and to engage in constructive dialogue facilitated by the Commission.
“This will not only safeguard the interests of both parties but also protect the public from the adverse effects of this conflict,” he added.
