Urgent Call for Police Action on Illegal Waste Dumping at Kenya Power Headquarters

Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni has demanded immediate police action regarding illegal garbage dumping outside Kenya Power’s offices at Stima Plaza. The conflict arose from a debt dispute, leading to serious health risks that forced Kenya Power to suspend office operations. There is growing concern about the outbreak of waterborne diseases and respiratory issues, prompting calls for swift remediation and an investigation into the actions of both parties.

Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni has raised alarm over a public health crisis at Stima Plaza due to illegal garbage dumping resulting from a dispute between Nairobi City County and Kenya Power. This situation has escalated to the extent that Kenya Power is compelled to suspend its office operations, underscoring the urgency for police and the National Environmental Authority (Nema) intervention to investigate the environmental and health threats posed by the waste.

The controversy began when Nairobi County allegedly disposed of waste at the entrance of Kenya Power’s offices as retaliation for approximately Sh4.8 billion in unpaid wayleave fees. Additionally, the county severed water supplies to Kenya Power and impounded various vehicles belonging to the company. In response, Kenya Power disconnected electricity to several county facilities, highlighting the escalating financial standoff between the two entities.

As a direct consequence of this waste accumulation, a revolting odor has led to the cessation of operations at Kenya Power, forcing employees to transition to remote work. Muthoni has expressed serious concerns regarding potential outbreaks of waterborne diseases, such as cholera and typhoid, as well as respiratory problems due to the hazardous fumes. She urges county health officials to address and remediate the situation promptly.

The Director of Public Prosecutions has mandated an investigation into the actions of both Nairobi County and Kenya Power. Deputy DPP Jacinta Nyamosi remarked on the public outcry surrounding the incident, indicating that it is a matter of legitimate public interest. Furthermore, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula has criticized the event, summoning Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to Parliament to shed light on the police’s inaction regarding the matter.

Wetangula condemned the actions taken by both parties, referring to them as “wild-waste behavior,” and emphasized that such conduct is uncharacteristic of Kenya, thereby calling for an immediate halt to these activities.

In summary, the illegal garbage dumping at Stima Plaza has prompted urgent calls for intervention from health authorities and police, as the situation poses serious public health risks. The dispute between Nairobi City County and Kenya Power illustrates the dire consequences of unresolved financial conflicts. Immediate action is necessary to prevent potential health crises and restore normalcy to the affected operations.

Original Source: mwakilishi.com