The Senate Standing Committee on Energy chaired by Senator Dr. Oburu Odinga (Siaya) today held a heated session with the Cabinet Secretary for Energy and Petroleum, Hon. Opiyo Wandayi, to deliberate on submissions concerning the Energy Amendment Bill, 2025.

CS Wandayi faced tough questions from senators who demanded clarity on the Ministry’s opposition to the proposed bill. Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna asked the CS to explain the Ministry’s position on the levy collected by Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) and whether alternative revenue streams by the utility were known to him.

The CS defended the current arrangement, arguing that regulating the levy would become challenging if the bill is adopted. He added that KPLC may have developed innovative ways of generating additional income, which he said was normal for such corporations.

Senator Beatrice Ogolla (nominated) criticized the CS’s arguments, terming them demeaning to devolution, a view strongly supported by Senator Danson Mungatana (Kilifi). However, Senator Dr. Boni Khalwale (Kakamega) differed, backing the CS by warning that devolving the levy to county governments could result in weak accountability.

CS Wandayi urged senators to involve all key sector stakeholders in the discussions, stating the matter is highly sensitive and should not rest solely upon the Ministry. The committee is expected to continue further engagements before making a final determination.

Before the meeting commenced, the committee took a solemn moment to honor the late Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, observing one minute of silence in memory of the second Prime Minister.