Fuel scandal: Opposition demands resignations and tax cuts as row deepens
A political confrontation over fuel prices has intensified after the United Opposition demanded the resignation of Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi and Trade and Investment Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui.
They accuse both officials of involvement in alleged irregularities in the petroleum import system and the government-to-government (G2G) framework.
The leaders say the system is affecting fuel prices and transparency in supply contracts.
The statement was attributed to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Democratic Party leader Justin Muturi, Fred Matiang’i and Eugene Wamalwa.
“We unequivocally demand the resignation of the Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi over the scandal and misleading Parliament,” the statement read.
The Opposition also called for the resignation of Trade CS Lee Kinyanjui, accusing him of complicity in the scandal.
The leaders want Parliament convened for a special sitting within seven days.
They want MPs to debate the G2G fuel import framework.
They also want scrutiny of emergency fuel procurement.
“Parliament must urgently sit and interrogate the structure of fuel imports, pricing and contracts under the G2G system,” Gachagua said in the statement.
Fuel taxes and consumer relief proposals
The Opposition also raised fresh economic demands aimed at lowering pump prices.
They called for the removal of the Value Added Tax (VAT) on fuel.
They also want the Road Maintenance Levy suspended or reviewed.
They argue these charges are worsening fuel costs for consumers.
“Kenyans are overburdened. We demand immediate removal of VAT on fuel and a review of the Road Maintenance Levy to cushion wananchi,” the statement added.
Allegations over fuel import system
The leaders further alleged that some oil marketing companies were favoured under the G2G arrangement.
Others, they claimed, were excluded from emergency supply allocations.
They also alleged that procurement decisions were altered after initial awards were issued.
The Opposition statement follows recent parliamentary engagement with stakeholders in the fuel sector.
Oil firm Oryx Energies appeared before a parliamentary committee on Tuesday.
The company explained circumstances surrounding a cancelled shipment and mid-process supply adjustments.
The Opposition referenced such developments as evidence of deeper challenges in the import system.
Government position
Energy sector agencies maintain that petroleum importation follows established procurement laws.
They also cite oversight by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).
Officials have previously said fuel pricing is driven by global oil markets, exchange rates and landed costs.
The government has not issued a detailed response to the latest Opposition allegations.
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