NAIROBI, Kenya – A petition has been filed at the High Court seeking the removal of Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi over alleged involvement in the importation of substandard fuel, in a case that has intensified scrutiny of Kenya’s petroleum supply chain.
The case, filed at the Milimani High Court, is seeking urgent orders to suspend the CS from office pending the hearing and determination of the petition.
The petitioner argues that Wandayi should be barred from exercising any functions related to petroleum procurement, importation, licensing, and regulatory approvals during the proceedings.
At the centre of the case are allegations that the Ministry of Energy facilitated the importation of fuel that did not meet required quality standards, including claims of irregular waivers and bypassing of mandatory verification processes.
The petitioner further wants the court to compel an independent oversight mechanism to take control of ongoing fuel importation processes, arguing that continued executive control could compromise accountability and public safety.
The petition also seeks orders directing investigative agencies, including the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), to probe all individuals implicated in the alleged scandal.
The move comes amid heightened political and public pressure over the handling of petroleum imports, with concerns raised over regulatory compliance and transparency in the energy sector.
Wandayi has not publicly responded to the petition in detail, but the Ministry of Energy has in previous instances maintained that all procurement processes are conducted within the law and in line with national standards.
The matter is now awaiting mention and directions at the High Court.
