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MPs to debate Uhuru veto on Bill seeking refund for power outages

The compensation, according to the Bill, was to be paid in the form of a subsidy incorporated in the customer’s bill/FILE

The compensation, according to the Bill, was to be paid in the form of a subsidy incorporated in the customer’s bill/FILE

NAIROBI, Kenya, Nov 17 – The National Assembly will next week vote on whether to uphold or to reject President Uhuru Kenyatta’s refusal to sign a Bill to have Kenya Power compensate customers for blackouts lasting more than three hours.

In his weekly address, where he highlights upcoming business in the House, Majority Leader Aden Duale said President Kenyatta wanted the Bill sent back to MPs for amendment.

Mvita MP Abdulswamad Nassir had proposed changes in the Energy Bill 2015, where he wants Kenya Power compelled to pay customers for any losses caused by blackouts exceeding three hours, in case it does not issue a 24-hour notice prior to such an outage.

The Bill, which was passed by both Houses also includes compensation for physical injuries.

The compensation, according to the Bill, was to be paid in the form of a subsidy incorporated in the customer’s bill.

In a memorandum explaining his refusal to assent to the Energy (Amendment) Bill, President Kenyatta said the clause on compensation for outages “fails to take into account that losses, injuries and damages could result not only on account of power outages, but other factors such as poor quality infrastructure or inputs or irregular supply.”

“In addition, such damage can also affect persons who are not consumers. Further to this, the provision does not take into account that the contracts between licencees and consumers cover such issues,” said President Kenyatta.

Instead, he recommended a clause that makes this compensation subject to an agreement between Kenya Power and a consumer.

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