Least we forget. Independence is a prerequisite for any telecommunications regulator. A weak regulator can lead to regulatory capture - the loss of independence because of undue influence from an incumbent operator, *political interests, or industry players*. It is generally accepted that regulatory independence involves: the separation of the regulator from the telecommunications operators that it regulates; lack of direct political influence on the regulator; and an open and transparent regulatory decision-making process. However, it is not possible to achieve absolute independence, as regulators are expected to be subject to some form of government oversight and a system of checks and balances. -- ______________________ Mwendwa Kivuva For Business Development Transworld Computer Channels Cel: 0722402248 twitter.com/lordmwesh www.transworldAfrica.com | Fluent in computing kenya.or.ke | The Kenya we know