At least 20 people have died in the last two years while on duty in repairing faulty Kenya Power lines.
Ex KP workers, said that more than 1000 were left nursing lifetime injuries or physically disabled due to such incidences.
Speaking during a vigil and candle lighting ceremony of the late Peter Omedi at Bedi Road, the workers claimed that the company often ignored them immediately an accident occurred.
“We have been victims of such incidences. The negligence by the power company supervisors has been absurd, with many of them coming to work drunk. In most cases, they often gave a wrong order while we are on top of the pole. Recently, a man was burnt beyond recognition at Kiandege area. Naivasha flower farms have also seen the electrocution of so many workers,” said Caleb Ouma, an ex- employee.
They claimed that cases of rotten poles often falling on the workers has been high, often leaving them crippled and permanently disabled.
“We have a man who was injured on top of the pole as he was repairing the power line and someone switched back the power. He had severe burns and was hospitalized for a year but when he was discharged the company refused to take any liability for the incidence.” Said Ouma.
They termed the incident as unfortunate, citing that the supervisors on the ground were largely to blame for the incidence.
“ How can a miscommunication occur in such a sensitive task? Someone should have paid for this. At least someone should be sacked “said Eric Omondi.