Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has issued a stern warning to Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) staff, emphasizing the urgent need for improved service delivery. Speaking in Alego Usonga, Siaya County, the CS expressed frustration over persistent inefficiencies that have caused undue suffering for Kenyans, calling on the utility firm’s employees to either rise to the challenge or vacate their positions.
Wandayi pointed out that KPLC, being largely government-owned, carries a critical mandate of ensuring reliable electricity supply and customer satisfaction. He underscored the pivotal role the company plays in supporting national development and uplifting citizens’ quality of life.
A Demand for Accountability
“There should be no reason at all why Kenyans should continue to suffer under the hands of officers who do not want to serve,” Wandayi declared. He noted that some employees exhibit a lackadaisical approach to their duties, which has perpetuated inefficiencies and prolonged complaints.
The CS stressed that the people are the true employers of KPLC staff, and their grievances deserve prompt and respectful responses. “Take your work seriously and respond to complaints by wananchi swiftly and promptly, addressing the issues being raised on a timely basis,” he urged.
Wandayi warned that he would not accept excuses for poor performance or delayed action on customer concerns. He urged employees who feel overburdened by their roles to voluntarily step aside to make way for those who are willing to deliver.
Call for Radical Changes
As part of his commitment to improving service delivery, Wandayi announced his intention to implement significant changes within the ministry in the coming year. He outlined plans to enhance accountability and efficiency, ensuring that KPLC’s operations align with President William Ruto’s vision of addressing the needs of all Kenyans.
The CS vowed to intensify oversight of the company by conducting impromptu visits to KPLC offices across the country. These inspections aim to evaluate progress, assess the responsiveness of staff, and address systemic challenges.
“Impromptu visits will help us identify gaps in service delivery and hold officers accountable for their actions or inactions,” Wandayi said. He reiterated his zero-tolerance approach to laxity, asserting that the ministry’s leadership would no longer condone mediocrity.
Restoring Public Confidence
Wandayi’s message comes at a time when KPLC has faced widespread criticism for frequent power outages, delayed resolutions to customer complaints, and perceived mismanagement. His visit to the Siaya County KPLC office served as a reminder of the company’s responsibility to prioritize public welfare and rebuild trust with its customers.
During the visit, Wandayi engaged with staff, urging them to uphold high standards of professionalism and efficiency. He encouraged teamwork and innovation to ensure sustainable and quality service delivery across the board.
The CS also warned against the “boss-like mentality” he claimed some officials have developed, which has led to unnecessary suffering for Kenyans. He emphasized that all employees, regardless of rank, must align their efforts with the ministry’s goals of providing dependable electricity and fostering national development.
Looking Ahead
With Wandayi’s resolute stance, Kenyans can anticipate a shake-up in how KPLC operates. The CS’s commitment to transparency and accountability marks a renewed effort to address long-standing challenges in the energy sector.
As the new year approaches, Wandayi’s reforms are expected to bring about a more responsive and efficient Kenya Power, with a stronger focus on customer satisfaction and national priorities. Whether the CS’s bold moves will yield the desired results remains to be seen, but one thing is clear there is no room for complacency in the future of KPLC.
