Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has dismissed growing calls for his resignation over the controversial KSh 4.8 billion fuel importation that fell outside the Government-to-Government (G-to-G) framework.
Appearing before the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Energy on Monday, Wandayi maintained that he has done nothing to warrant stepping down, insisting he remains fully committed to discharging his duties.
“There is no reason to stop me from continuing to discharge my duties as Cabinet Secretary,” he told lawmakers.
PS Approved the Controversial Shipment
In his defence, Wandayi shifted responsibility for the approval of the vessel used to transport the disputed fuel consignment to former Petroleum Principal Secretary Mohamed Liban.
He explained that the decision followed recommendations from a technical committee, which had reviewed stock levels and made proposals that were subsequently approved by the PS.
“The PS in his wisdom did approve it,” Wandayi stated.
Briefed President Ruto, Halted Second Shipment
The CS told the committee that upon discovering the irregular importation, he acted swiftly by informing President William Ruto.
According to Wandayi, the President directed him to take immediate corrective action, including stopping a second fuel consignment that was already on its way.
“I personally moved swiftly and briefed His Excellency the President on March 30 when it became clear that this consignment was outside G-to-G,” he said.
“First and Only” Violation of G-to-G Framework
Wandayi emphasised that this was the first instance of fuel being imported outside the G-to-G arrangement since its implementation in 2023.
He defended the framework, describing it as effective and stating that any deviation would require full Cabinet approval.
“This is the first consignment that came outside the G-to-G framework,” he noted.
Pressure Mounts After Senior Officials Resign
The CS’s remarks come amid mounting pressure following the resignation of key officials linked to the scandal.
Those who stepped down include:
- Former Petroleum PS Mohamed Liban
- Daniel Kiptoo Bargoria, Director General of the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA)
- Joe Sang, Managing Director of Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC)
The three resigned on April 4 after their arrest over the alleged illegal fuel importation.
Legal Challenge Filed
Further complicating matters, a petition was filed at the Milimani High Court on April 10 seeking Wandayi’s suspension over alleged involvement in the irregular deal.
Despite the intensifying scrutiny, the CS has remained defiant, reiterating that he followed due process and took corrective measures once the issue came to light.
Ongoing Scrutiny
Parliament is expected to continue probing the matter as pressure mounts on the Ministry of Energy to provide full accountability over the scandal.
The case has sparked public debate over transparency in fuel importation and the effectiveness of oversight mechanisms within the sector.
As investigations and legal proceedings unfold, Wandayi’s political and administrative future remains under close watch.
