CS Opiyo Wandayi Assures Kenyans of Stable Fuel Supply Amid Scandal

CS Opiyo Wandayi has moved to calm public anxiety over the ongoing fuel supply scandal, assuring Kenyans that the situation is under control and that there are sufficient petroleum stocks in the country.

In a statement issued on April 5, 2026, Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi confirmed that the government had halted a second fuel shipment linked to the ongoing investigations, describing the move as necessary to protect public interest.

“When full information about the fuel shipment that is the subject of investigations emerged, we stopped the delivery of a second cargo under similar circumstances,” Wandayi said.

The reassurance comes in the wake of high-profile resignations of senior officials in the energy sector, including leaders at the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) and the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC), over alleged irregular procurement of fuel outside the Government-to-Government (G2G) framework.

Wandayi emphasized that despite the controversy, the country’s fuel reserves remain stable and capable of meeting current demand.

“We further wish to reassure the public that there are sufficient stocks of petroleum products to meet current demand,” he said, adding that the government remains committed to ensuring uninterrupted supply of quality fuel both locally and across the region.

The CS defended the G2G fuel procurement framework, noting that it has shielded Kenyans from global market shocks, particularly amid geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

“The G-to-G fuel procurement framework… remains stable and resilient,” he stated.

At the same time, the Ministry has launched a comprehensive internal review of petroleum management systems to enhance transparency, ensure quality control, and safeguard the integrity of the supply chain.

Wandayi also warned against misinformation, accusing some political actors of spreading false narratives about the crisis.

“We have noted with concern a campaign of disinformation orchestrated by a section of political leaders over this unfortunate situation,” he said.

In a strong warning, the CS said the government would not tolerate exploitation of the crisis by cartels or profiteers.

“There will be no tolerance for cartels, profiteers, or extortionists seeking to exploit the uncertainty… for personal gain,” he said.

The statement also revealed significant price disparities between the controversial fuel shipment and those procured under the G2G arrangement.

According to the Ministry, fuel sourced outside the framework was substantially more expensive, by about KSh 43.4 per litre, compared to G2G supplies.

Investigations into the scandal are ongoing, with the government urging the public to remain patient as agencies conduct independent and professional inquiries.

“We shall provide more updates as we progress,” Wandayi said.