MP calls for civic education to tame illegal electricity connections

Kapsowar,

Monday, October 30, 2023

KNA by Rennish Okong’o

Marakwet West Member of National Assembly, Timothy Toroitich, has stepped forward to address the persistent issue of power disconnections in the region, caused by illegal connections leading to the dismantling of power-dropping cables by the Kenya Power Company (KPC).

Toroitich has advocated for comprehensive civic education as a vital solution to enlighten residents on the results of such unlawful power connections.

The recurring problem of power disconnections in Marakwet West, largely attributed to illegal power hook-ups, has led to significant concern for the safety of the residents.

Blaming the destructive practice of unlawful power connections, the MP emphasized the necessity for KPC to conduct civic education campaigns.

These initiatives aim to educate residents on adhering to the regulations governing power connections rather than resorting to the damaging and forceful act of pulling down power-dropping cables, which goes against regulations.

Toroitich believes that the root cause of the problem lies in a lack of awareness among the local population about the implications of illegal power connections.

He contends that it is imperative to educate the residents on the importance of adhering to regulations for power connections instead of resorting to erratic and forcible measures like pulling down power-dropping cables.

"Pulling down power cables sporadically not only disrupts the power supply but is also against established guidelines," stated Toroitich.

He added that it is essential for our people to comprehend the significance of complying with the prescribed norms for power connections instead of resorting to illegal practices.

Moreover, Toroitich highlighted the issue of fraudulent meters being distributed, emphasizing that these faulty meters fail to reflect in the KPLC database. This discrepancy has added to the existing challenges faced by the community.

 Acknowledging the urgency of the situation, Toroitich's intervention resulted in the deployment of a KPC team from Iten, the county headquarters, to conduct an educational program in Marakwet West.

The primary objective of this initiative is to familiarize residents with proper power connectivity procedures, guide them on obtaining valid meters, and provide insights into associated matters.

The MP is optimistic that this educational campaign will eliminate the confrontations arising from the unauthorized removal of power-dropping cables, ultimately safeguarding the revenue of the country.

This marked a pivotal step as the KPLC team visited various points in Marakwet West to assist community members in comprehending power connectivity matters. Their visit to Mugurgurai village specifically aimed to kick-start the process of establishing proper power connections in the area.

In addition to the educational efforts, the legislator urged residents to remain vigilant and cautious, warning against falling victim to fraudulent offers of illegal connections.

He stressed the long-term losses and potential tragedies resulting from poorly executed illegal connections.

"Illegal power connections pose not only financial losses but also serious safety hazards. Residents must prioritize legal and safe power connections to avoid any tragedies," remarked Toroitich.

Courtesy; KNA