Nominated Senator Miraj Abdulrahman has asked the Standing Committee on Energy to provide a statement regarding the upsurge in incidents of electric fires in Likoni and Changamwe constituencies in Mombasa County.
Speaking on Wednesday February 21, Miraj told the Committee to provide a status update on investigations into the increase of electric fires in the two Constituencies.
In the statement, she urged the Committee to explain delays by Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) in paying victims of electric fires.
“State why there have been delays by the KPLC to pay damages awarded by courts to individuals affected by electric fires, as is the case with Mr. Kazungu Ngala Kasunji, who was awarded damages in court case no. MCCC 428/2014,” she said.
She also wants the Committee to outline measures implemented by the government to fast-track the payment of compensation to the affected residents.
The Senator wants the Committee to indicate whether the government intends to establish a framework for financial support to affected residents while investigations into the causes are ongoing.
Miraj also wants the Energy Committee to explain measures adopted to address the causes of the fires and prevent future recurrence.
Additionally, the senator asked the Committee to explain the regulatory framework governing electrical safety standards and outline government’s plan to tighten the standards due to the increased electric fires.
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Senator Seeks Statement from the Roads Committee
The lawmaker also seeks a statement from the Standing Committee on Roads, Transportation and Housing regarding the breakdown of ferries at the Likoni Channel in Mombasa County.
In her statement, the Roads Committee should table a report detailing the state of ferries operating at the Likoni Channel in Mombasa.
The Committee should also provide a report on the frequency of the ferry breakdowns and the reasons behind them, noting the recent one on Saturday February 15, 2024.
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“Explain the maintenance and repair protocols put in place by the Kenya Ferry Service (KFS), tabling the report on the latest vessel inspections,” she said.
She equally wants the Committee to explain why vessels with mechanical issues have been cleared to operate.
According to Miraj, the clearance jeopardizes the lives and safety of approximately 350,000 passengers who use the crossing daily.
The Committee should also specify measures put in place by KFS to minimize downtime and safeguard the wellbeing of passengers using the ferry service.
