NAIROBI, Kenya, Sep 1-The Commission on Administrative Justice is preparing to rule on a dispute over access to information concerning the proposed Siaya nuclear power project, as local communities demand greater transparency over the development.

📻 Breaking It Down

The Commission popularly known as the Ombudsman, said Tuesday that it was finalising a ruling in a case brought by the Friends of Siaya Anti-Nuclear Plant (FSANP) against the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA) after the group challenged the adequacy of information provided in response to a broad request on the proposed project.

The dispute comes amid growing concerns among residents and community groups over the project’s status, potential location, land acquisition and compensation, environmental impacts and nuclear safety.

The Ombudsman said the FSANP representatives raised concerns over access to information and meaningful public participation, as well as potential impacts on livelihoods and the Lake Victoria Basin.

📌 What You Need to Know

They also sought information on environmental and social safeguards, emergency preparedness, radioactive waste management and the conduct of public agencies involved in the project.

The Commission stressed, however, that the concerns and allegations presented by the community representatives had not been established as facts.

“I wish to emphasise that these are concerns and allegations presented to the Commission by the representatives and no finding has been made on their veracity,” Chairperson Charles Dulo said.

The FSANP application followed an information request submitted to NuPEA in July concerning the proposed Siaya Nuclear Energy Project, which the group says is planned for Central Sakwa Ward in Bondo Sub-County, within the Lake Victoria Basin.

The request sought a wide range of documents, including strategic plans, site-selection records, technical and feasibility studies, environmental and social assessments, land acquisition and resettlement information, nuclear safety and emergency preparedness plans, radioactive waste management records, financing and procurement information, and documents relating to public participation.

NuPEA responded on August 20, addressing issues including site selection, land requirements, public participation, environmental assessment, nuclear safety, radioactive waste management, livelihoods and community benefits.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya