Atwoli Explains Why Worker Representation On The EPRA Board Is Critical

Francis Atwoli, Secretary General of the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU), is seeking Section 12 of the Energy Act of 2019 to be amended to include representation for labor organizations on the EPRA Board, as it has in the past.

The primary point of this call is that having a COTU (K) representation on the EPRA Board would ensure the well-being of energy workers.

"COTU (K) represents the interests of workers in a variety of industries, including those in the energy sector." Workers must be represented on the EPRA Board, given the considerable impact of electricity pricing on workers and their households, according to Atwoli.

Atwoli stressed COTU (K)'s competence in the energy sector, adding that their understanding of labor concerns and the complexities of the energy market may considerably enrich EPRA Board talks, resulting in more informed judgments.

"COTU (K) will act as a liaison between workers and EPRA, fostering better communication and understanding of each other's perspectives," he stated, underlining the importance of worker representation as a bridge between laborers and EPRA.

"The inclusion of COTU (K) representatives in decision-making processes will foster collaboration and constructive dialogue."

Workers MUST be represented in the EPRA Board, as it was in the past, by amending Section 12 of the Energy Act, 2019.

First, having a representative from COTU (K) in the EPRA board will ensure that the concerns of workers are considered in regulatory decisions that affect… pic.twitter.com/phd08QmkkF

— Francis Atwoli NOM (DZA), CBS, EBS, MBS. (@AtwoliDza) September 13, 2023

The Chairperson requested that Section 12 of the Energy Act 2019 be thoroughly reviewed to promote worker representation on the EPRA Board.

He argued that this revision would lead to a more equal and inclusive approach to energy pricing decisions, benefiting employees and customers.

"Including diverse key players on the EPRA board, such as COTU (K), improves transparency in regulatory decisions." It ensures that the interests of many society groups are considered, creating better public trust in the regulatory process," he explained.

Atwoli has asked authorities to address the broader consequences of involving workers in defining Kenya's energy environment.