Gachagua Names President Ruto and Senior Officials in Alleged Fuel Scandal

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused the Kenya Kwanza government of being involved in what he described as one of the biggest fuel scandals in Kenya’s history.

Speaking on behalf of the United Alternative Government, Gachagua linked the recent increase in fuel prices to what he claimed were irregular dealings in the country’s petroleum importation system.

In his statement, Gachagua mentioned President William Ruto as the key figure in the alleged scandal. He also named Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, and Senate Energy Committee Chairperson Oburu Odinga.

The coalition also spoke about the recent arrests of former Petroleum Principal Secretary Mohamed Liban, former EPRA Director General Daniel Kiptoo, and former Kenya Pipeline Managing Director Joe Sang. According to Gachagua, the three officials acted within the law and should not be blamed.

Gachagua said the problems began after tensions in the Middle East affected global oil supply, leading to delays under the Government-to-Government (G-to-G) fuel importation deal.

He explained that the government was forced to use emergency procurement measures under the Petroleum Importation Regulations, 2023, to prevent a fuel shortage during the Easter period.

As part of the emergency plan, oil marketing companies were invited to submit bids to supply fuel. Reports indicate that two firms were awarded the contracts after meeting the required technical and pricing conditions.

However, the coalition claimed that Gulf Energy, which it linked to the President, submitted its bid after the procurement process had already been completed but was later added into the fuel supply chain through political influence.

The statement further alleged that senior government officials and international oil companies later held talks that led to a change in pricing.

These new prices reportedly took effect on April 14, causing petrol prices to rise by KSh 28.69 per litre and diesel by KSh 40.30 per litre.

Gachagua warned that the higher fuel prices would increase transport costs, raise the cost of production, and make life more expensive for ordinary Kenyans.

He also claimed that the changes could generate profits of up to KSh 2.5 billion for companies involved in the supply chain, depending on fuel volumes.

The coalition also questioned why fuel prices in Uganda remain lower, even though the fuel passes through Kenya’s port infrastructure.

The United Alternative Government is now calling for a special parliamentary sitting within the next seven days to review the G-to-G fuel importation framework.

It is also asking Parliament to suspend some fuel-related levies and ensure those responsible are held accountable.

In addition, the coalition wants Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi and Trade CS Lee Kinyanjui to resign and face prosecution over their alleged involvement in the matter.