Kenya’s Energy Minister Summoned Over Substandard Fuel Imports Scandal
Nairobi, April 7, 2026 — Kenya’s Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary, Opiyo Wandayi, has been summoned to appear before a parliamentary committee following explosive allegations of substandard fuel imports. The move comes amid growing political pressure for his resignation, with critics accusing him of failing to safeguard the integrity of the country’s fuel supply.
The National Assembly’s Energy Committee has scheduled a high-stakes hearing for Thursday, April 9, where Wandayi and other key industry players will face tough questions. Lawmakers aim to uncover whether regulatory failures, corruption, or negligence allowed tainted fuel to enter the Kenyan market.
A Crisis of Confidence
Committee Chairperson David Gikaria warned that the scandal threatens not only consumer safety but also investor trust in Kenya’s energy sector. “The integrity of our petroleum supply chain is non-negotiable,” Gikaria said during a press briefing. “We will leave no stone unturned in this investigation.”
The summons follows a wave of resignations from top officials, including Petroleum Principal Secretary Mohamed Liban, Kenya Pipeline Company CEO Joe Sang, and Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) Director Daniel Kiptoo Bargoria. Their departures came after investigations revealed a suspected scheme involving substandard fuel imports and manipulated supply data.
Political Pressure Mounts
Opposition leaders, including Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale, have demanded Wandayi’s immediate resignation or impeachment, arguing that as the ministry’s head, he must take responsibility. “When the fish rots, it starts from the head,” Khalwale said in a recent statement.
Lawmakers plan to scrutinize whether proper procedures under Kenya’s Government-to-Government (G-to-G) fuel import framework were bypassed. They will also probe alleged lapses in quality control and whether regulatory agencies failed in their oversight duties.
Public Fears Over Fuel Shortages
Amid the scandal, concerns have risen over possible fuel shortages. However, the committee sought to reassure the public, citing Treasury data showing sufficient reserves as of March 30. According to the report, Kenya currently holds:
- 138,623 metric tonnes of super petrol (16 days’ supply)
- 207,841 metric tonnes of diesel (19 days’ supply)
- 150,398 metric tonnes of jet fuel (49 days’ supply)
Despite these assurances, lawmakers insist that Wandayi must provide definitive answers on fuel quality and supply stability during his hearing.
What’s Next?
Wandayi is expected to explain how substandard fuel entered the market, outline measures to stabilize prices, and propose reforms to prevent future breaches. Gem MP Elisha Odhiambo emphasized the need for accountability: “The public deserves full transparency. This investigation must be pursued without fear or favor.”
As Kenya braces for the parliamentary showdown, the scandal has reignited debates over corruption and governance in the energy sector—a critical pillar of the country’s economy.
— Reported by Nexio News
