Residents of Eldoret have received a significant reprieve after the Environment and Land Court temporarily halted the implementation of new water tariffs introduced by the Eldoret Water and Sanitation Company (ELDOWAS). The ruling, issued on March 25, 2025, was delivered virtually by Justice E.M. Washe, putting on hold the enforcement of Gazette Notice No. 12825, dated October 4, 2024, pending a full hearing and determination of the petition.
Legal Challenge Against Eldoret water tariffs
The case challenging the tariff adjustments was filed by petitioners Kipkorir Arap Menjo and David Kipkulei Chebet. They argued that the increased charges placed an unjust financial burden on consumers, particularly at a time when the cost of living remains high. The petitioners further pointed out that it was unfair for residents to be billed under the disputed new rates while an earlier court order had prohibited ELDOWAS from disconnecting water meters due to unpaid balances arising from the controversial tariff structure.
The petitioners maintained that the implementation of the revised tariffs was done without proper stakeholder engagement and lacked transparency. They urged the court to intervene to prevent residents from bearing the brunt of an unfair pricing policy.
Court’s Ruling: A Win for Residents
In its ruling, the court acknowledged the serious concerns raised, recognizing the matter as one of public interest that required thorough legal scrutiny. Justice Washe directed ELDOWAS to revert to the previous water tariff structure until the case is fully heard and determined. Furthermore, the court instructed residents to clear any outstanding bills based on the previous rates, cautioning that failure to do so would give ELDOWAS the legal authority to disconnect services.
This ruling comes as a relief to many Eldoret residents who have been vocal about the increasing cost of water services. The decision has been welcomed by local leaders, consumer rights groups, and members of the public, who have been advocating for fair and affordable water pricing.
Reactions from Residents and Consumer Groups
Consumer rights activists have lauded the court’s decision, emphasizing the need for regulatory bodies to engage the public before implementing significant changes that affect basic utilities. Many residents took to social media to express their gratitude to the judiciary for upholding fairness and ensuring that essential services remain accessible to all.
Local leaders also weighed in on the matter, urging ELDOWAS to prioritize transparency and dialogue when making policy changes. Some have called for a comprehensive review of water pricing in the county to ensure affordability and sustainability.
The Road Ahead: What’s Next for Eldoret Residents?
As the legal battle continues, Eldoret residents remain hopeful for a lasting solution that balances the need for sustainable water service provision with affordability. The court’s decision highlights the crucial role of the judiciary in safeguarding public interests against potentially exploitative regulatory measures.
With the case still in progress, stakeholders will be keenly watching the next steps, particularly how ELDOWAS and local authorities respond to the legal challenge. For now, residents can breathe easier, knowing that they will not be subjected to the higher tariffs—at least until a final determination is made.
Conclusion
The suspension of the new water tariffs is a significant victory for Eldoret residents, reinforcing the importance of legal oversight in governance and service delivery. As the case proceeds, all eyes will be on the courts to ensure justice prevails and that water services remain accessible and fairly priced.
