Huruma MCA Hails Court Orders Halting Water Tariff Hike, Warns of Protest Action

A ward representative from Uasin Gishu  has welcomed court-issued conservatory orders suspending a controversial water tariff increase, even as he warned of possible public resistance if authorities fail to comply with the directive.

Speaking during a public address, Kimani Wanjohi, the Member of County Assembly (MCA) for Huruma Ward, said a tribunal sitting in Nairobi had ordered that the recently increased water tariffs be reverted to previous rates pending the hearing and determination of an ongoing case.

The MCA explained that the dispute over the gazetted tariff hike is currently before multiple legal bodies, including the High Court and the Court of Appeal, underscoring the complexity and weight of the matter. He revealed that a key judgment in the High Court case is expected on the 13th of next month, a date many stakeholders are now closely watching.

“We will not allow due process to be violated,” Wanjohi said, emphasizing that the conservatory orders were meant to shield residents from what he termed as an unlawful and irregular increase in water charges. “The tribunal has spoken, and its directive must be respected by all parties involved.”

The case revolves around actions by a water service provider in Uasin Gishu County, which Wanjohi described as a statutory entity largely owned by the county government. He accused the utility’s management of disregarding existing court orders by proceeding with the tariff adjustments despite legal challenges already in place.

According to the MCA, legal action has already been instituted against the utility’s leadership, including contempt of court proceedings targeting senior officials for allegedly failing to comply with earlier directives issued by the High Court. He argued that such actions undermine the rule of law and erode public trust in institutions tasked with delivering essential services.

Wanjohi maintained that the authority must be held to the same legal standards expected of ordinary citizens, insisting that obedience to court orders is not optional.

“They have to follow the law just as they expect wananchi to follow the law. We cannot have a situation where institutions act with impunity while residents bear the burden,” he said.

He further called for the immediate implementation of the tribunal’s orders, particularly the reversal of the contested tariffs, noting that many households are already struggling with the rising cost of living.

In a strongly worded warning, the MCA said leaders could advise residents to withhold payment of water bills should the orders be ignored, signaling a possible escalation in the standoff between residents and the service provider.

“If these court orders are not implemented, we will have no option but to advise residents accordingly. People cannot be forced to comply with незакон charges imposed in defiance of the law,” he said.

Wanjohi also raised concerns over reports that water supply could be disrupted as a result of the dispute, cautioning against any move that would punish residents while the matter remains before the courts.

“We have heard threats of water disconnections. That would be unacceptable. Essential services should not be used as a tool to intimidate citizens,” he added.

He reiterated that the legal route remains the preferred path, expressing confidence that the courts will ultimately deliver justice.

“We are going straight to judgment to seek a final resolution. We believe the courts will uphold fairness and protect the rights of residents,” he said, adding that leaders remain committed to pursuing all legal avenues available.

Also weighing in on the matter, Abubakar Bini, the Chairman of the CIPK North Rift, called for calm and strict adherence to the rule of law as the dispute unfolds.

“Court orders are not suggestions—they are binding,” Bini said. “All parties must act within the law to avoid escalating tensions. This issue should be resolved through the courts in a manner that safeguards justice and fairness for residents.”

He urged both the authorities and the public to exercise restraint, warning that confrontational approaches could worsen the situation and disrupt access to essential services.

The leaders jointly emphasized the importance of accountability and transparency in the management of public utilities, noting that access to affordable and reliable water remains a fundamental concern for many households across the North Rift region.

As the legal battle continues, the dispute over water tariffs is increasingly drawing attention from leaders, civil society, and residents alike, highlighting broader questions about governance, public participation, and the cost of basic services.

For now, all eyes remain on the courts as residents await a final determination that could have far-reaching implications for water pricing and service delivery in Uasin Gishu County and beyond.