Andrew Keili, Board Chairman of the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA), accused every citizen of electricity, saying the country is losing half of its electricity through technical faults and illegal connections.

In a recent interview on Radio Democracy, he explained that even if EDSA collected all the money it’s supposed to, the electricity system would still be in bad shape. But things are worse now because 50% of the electricity being produced is not reaching paying customers.

He said part of the problem is technical, pointing to overloaded transformers and faults in the distribution system. But most of the loss, according to him, is due to theft.

“It starts from big industrial and commercial customers,” he said. “Everybody is at fault. Nobody is exempted. Everybody is stealing electricity. And this has to stop.”

His statement suggests the theft may include offices and people in high places.

Keili also disclosed that EDSA is working on reforms. He added that they have held meetings with the Chief Justice and with Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella. Plans are underway to create a special electricity court and to revise the electricity law to make penalties for stealing power stronger.

EDSA is also working with the Law Officers Department to support this effort.

Keili said real change will only come if there is honesty from all users and strong enforcement of the rules.