Sam Atandi Criticizes Ruto for Cancelling Adani Deal, Labels Him Fearful
Alego Usonga MP Sam Atandi has strongly condemned President William Ruto for canceling the Adani electricity transmission deal. He accused Ruto of surrendering to pressure and ignoring Kenyans’ urgent power needs.
During the November 25 State of the Nation debate, Atandi expressed his disappointment. He highlighted his constituency’s struggles with unreliable electricity, which hampers youth employment and local trade.
“I disagree with the President on canceling one of the Adani contracts. In my region, transmission lines don’t work. Young people can’t even weld because of inconsistent power,” Atandi stated.
Missed Opportunity to Solve Power Challenges
Atandi emphasized the importance of the KSh 95 billion Adani project for improving power supply. He explained that the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO) planned the project under its 2023-2042 Transmission Master Plan. This initiative aimed to meet Kenya’s growing energy demand, projected to rise from 2,149 MW in 2022 to 6,093 MW by 2042.
Learning from the Nairobi Expressway Project
“This project could have fixed our power problems. Canceling it leaves Kenyans with unresolved challenges,” he argued.
Atandi drew a comparison to former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s controversial Nairobi Expressway project. He praised Kenyatta for standing firm despite criticism and legal challenges.
“When Uhuru built the Expressway, some people complained, and others went to court. Today, Kenyans use it and appreciate its value,” he noted.
He urged Ruto to adopt a similar approach and remain firm when implementing critical projects. “The President should not act out of fear, especially for a vital project like Adani’s electricity deal,” Atandi added.
Legal Challenges Surrounding the Deal
In October, the High Court suspended the Adani-KETRACO deal due to constitutional concerns. The Law Society of Kenya argued the agreement lacked transparency and public participation. Justice Bahati Mwamuye ordered a halt to its implementation pending further review.
Atandi, however, insists that the government must balance accountability with development. He urged Ruto to prioritize solutions for regions facing persistent energy problems.
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Sam Atandi Criticizes Ruto for Cancelling Adani Deal, Labels Him Fearful
