Senate to question CS Kinyanjui over substandard fuel import scandal

The parliamentary energy watchdog, which conducted an inspection of the country’s petroleum stocks at the Kipevu Oil Storage Facility, revealed that the condemned consignment is still held in the country under tight security, awaiting shipment. 

Investigations into the multi-billion shillings fuel importation scandal have now been extended to the Port of Mombasa.

Members of the Senate Energy Committee visited the Kipevu Oil Storage Facility to seek answers over the irregular importation of the substandard oil. The committee says it has summoned the Trade CS to explain under what circumstances he approved the clearance of the consignment.

“We want to understand the basis upon which the approval was granted and whether due process was followed,” stated Veronicah Maina, Nominated Senator.

“Hatujui ni kwa sababu gani walifanya hivyo lakini jana tukiwa kwa mkutano walisema walikuwa wanaomba security kwa mafuta kwa sababu ya ile shida iko kule gulf region walikuwa hawataki mafuta ipotee kwa nchi yetu,” stated William Kisang, Vice Chairperson, Senate Energy Committee.

Investigations by the Senate Energy Committee have also established that the consignment remains in the country under tight security at the Kenya Petroleum Refineries Limited after it was discharged on March 27, 2026. The committee says it will also question directors of One Petroleum Limited.

“Wametuambia mafuta imewekwa kando haijaingia market ndio sisi tuko hapa kuestablish kama hiyo mafuta imewekwa kando ama iko kwa soko sasa mpaka sasa bado tunaendelea na uchunguzi,” Kisang noted. 

“We will ensure accountability and transparency in this matter as investigations continue,” Senator Maina highlighted. 

It also remains unclear whether the consignment will be shipped out as directed by the Energy Ministry.

“If it’s established, it’s upon KPC and the owner of the consignment, One Petroleum Limited, and KPA to ensure the owner ships back the product to where it came from,” Kisang added. 

The Kenya Pipeline Company has informed the Senate Energy Committee that there is sufficient fuel in the country, adding that eight more vessels are expected to dock and discharge additional oil products within the next two weeks.