Wambui Faith
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has stirred fresh debate over the ongoing fuel import saga, claiming that the recent arrest of senior energy officials is not about accountability, but rather a fallout from a high-stakes business dispute.
Speaking during a recent interview, the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader alleged that the arrests are tied to disagreements surrounding the government-to-government (G-to-G) oil importation deal. According to him, the situation reflects internal conflicts rather than efforts to fight corruption.
Gachagua claimed that three top officials—Energy Principal Secretary Mohamed Liban, Joe Sang of the Kenya Pipeline Company, and Daniel Kiptoo of the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority—found themselves in trouble after allegedly bypassing the G-to-G arrangement and importing fuel through a different channel.
He further alleged that this move angered President William Ruto, whom he claims is closely linked to the oil importation framework. According to Gachagua, the officials reportedly made about Ksh. 500 million from the alternative deal, triggering a backlash.
“This is not about justice; it’s a trade war,” Gachagua claimed, suggesting that the arrests were driven by personal and financial interests rather than the rule of law.
He also made controversial claims that the officials have been pressured to resign, and that money allegedly recovered during investigations has since gone missing under unclear circumstances.
Despite being summoned by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) over his statements, Gachagua has dismissed the summons and indicated he will not comply.
Looking ahead, he warned that the wrangles surrounding the oil import deal could soon impact ordinary Kenyans. He cautioned that fuel prices may rise in the coming weeks, which could in turn push up transport costs and the overall cost of living.
Speaking during a recent interview, the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader alleged that the arrests are tied to disagreements surrounding the government-to-government (G-to-G) oil importation deal. According to him, the situation reflects internal conflicts rather than efforts to fight corruption.
Gachagua claimed that three top officials—Energy Principal Secretary Mohamed Liban, Joe Sang of the Kenya Pipeline Company, and Daniel Kiptoo of the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority—found themselves in trouble after allegedly bypassing the G-to-G arrangement and importing fuel through a different channel.
He further alleged that this move angered President William Ruto, whom he claims is closely linked to the oil importation framework. According to Gachagua, the officials reportedly made about Ksh. 500 million from the alternative deal, triggering a backlash.
“This is not about justice; it’s a trade war,” Gachagua claimed, suggesting that the arrests were driven by personal and financial interests rather than the rule of law.
He also made controversial claims that the officials have been pressured to resign, and that money allegedly recovered during investigations has since gone missing under unclear circumstances.
Despite being summoned by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) over his statements, Gachagua has dismissed the summons and indicated he will not comply.
Looking ahead, he warned that the wrangles surrounding the oil import deal could soon impact ordinary Kenyans. He cautioned that fuel prices may rise in the coming weeks, which could in turn push up transport costs and the overall cost of living.
