Fuel saga: CS Wandayi says another shipment blocked from docking in Mombasa

The government has stopped a second fuel shipment from docking at the Port of Mombasa as investigations into a controversial oil cargo continue.

Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi confirmed that the move was taken to protect public interest and prevent possible irregularities.

According to the CS, the government acted quickly after new details emerged about the first fuel shipment under investigation. He assured Kenyans that the situation is under control and there is no cause for alarm.

“We stopped the delivery of a second cargo under similar conditions to protect the public,” Wandayi said in a statement.

Despite growing concerns, the CS maintained that Kenya has enough fuel in stock to meet current demand. He also reassured the public that the country will continue to receive a steady supply of petroleum products.

The government is also reviewing how fuel is handled and managed in the country. Wandayi said the review will improve transparency, ensure quality, and strengthen the fuel supply chain.

At the same time, President William Ruto has warned individuals involved in corrupt dealings in the oil sector. Speaking in Narok, the President said his administration will deal firmly with cartels, just as it has done in the coffee and tea sectors.

“We will take strong action against anyone trying to interfere with the system for personal gain,” Ruto said.

The President also mentioned that tensions in the Middle East could be contributing to the confusion in the oil sector, but insisted the government is ready to handle the situation.

The CS further warned that there will be no room for cartels, profiteers, or individuals trying to take advantage of the crisis for personal benefit.

The ongoing fuel saga has already led to major changes in the sector. Several top officials have resigned, including Daniel Kiptoo, Joe Sang, and Mohamed Liban.

The government claims the officials stepped down after being linked to attempts to interfere with the Government-to-Government fuel import deal. The deal was introduced to stabilize the Kenyan shilling by allowing the country to import fuel on credit from Gulf countries.

Authorities say investigations are still ongoing, and more actions may be taken to protect the country’s energy sector.