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{
    "id": 291346,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/291346/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 384,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Mr. Njuguna",
    "speaker_title": "",
    "speaker": {
        "id": 20,
        "legal_name": "Peter Njuguna Gitau",
        "slug": "peter-gitau"
    },
    "content": "Thank you, Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, for this chance also to contribute to this very critical legislation. On the amendment to the Energy Act, I note that it has been difficult sometimes when the Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) personnel are supplying power in certain areas. Plot or land owners have refused to allow the power lines to pass through their farms. At times, this has been caused by the KPLC not giving compensation in good time. I wish to be heard saying that the attitude by the KPLC must be changed if, indeed, it wants land owners to comply with its request. It has been inactive and slow in that regard. The amendment proposes a life sentence for whoever will not be compliant. This is a very harsh sentence and I would suggest that a lighter sentence of 20 years would be appropriate to encourage people to allow power lines to pass through their land. On the Kenya Information and Communication Act, I note that some people in this country have become millionaires overnight for engaging in vandalism of facilities owned by the KPLC. We have seen new transformers not taking more than a day. They are stolen. The people who encourage the small fish to vandalize these facilities are the big people. Therefore, it is important that the Vandalism Act is strengthened to deter the theft of transformers, copper wires and fibre optic cables. When cables are stolen, various sectors in the country are affected, for example, security, industries and even banks. Therefore, deterrent measures must be put in place as per the amendments. A fine of Kshs10 million would be encouraging and I would propose that these people being millionaires, the fine must be raised to even Kshs20 million. A life sentence for the same offence would be very severe and very harsh. This must be reviewed downwards. Maybe we need to think of putting people in for at least, five to ten years. On the TJRC, we have witnessed unnecessary wrangles that have necessitated unnecessary stay of the Commission on a very important national assignment. On the appointment of Commissioners, we have patriots in this country, namely, people who have the country at heart. These are the people who must be appointed to such Commissions."
}