RUTO AXES ENERGY BOSSES IN KSh4B ‘DIRTY FUEL’ SCANDAL
By News Desk
President William Ruto has announced the resignation of three senior officials in Kenya’s energy sector following a major fuel importation scandal that has sent shockwaves across the country.
The officials affected include Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) Director General Daniel Kiptoo Bargoria, Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) Managing Director Joe Sang, and Petroleum Principal Secretary Mohamed Liban.
In a letter dated April 4, 2026, Head of Public Service Felix Koskei revealed that the officials allegedly manipulated in-country fuel stock data. This action reportedly triggered an irregular emergency procurement of fuel, in violation of Kenya’s government-to-government (G-to-G) oil supply agreement with Gulf nations.
The scandal centers around a controversial fuel consignment aboard the vessel MV Paloma, which was allegedly diverted from Angola to Mombasa under questionable circumstances. Reports indicate the shipment was overpriced by approximately KSh 4 billion and failed to meet Kenya’s required quality standards, raising serious concerns about public safety and financial accountability.
Further disciplinary action has been initiated against KPC Deputy Director Joseph Wafula and Supply and Logistics Manager Joel Mburu, as investigations widen into what is shaping up to be one of the most significant procurement scandals in recent years.
President Ruto has assured the public that the government will conduct thorough investigations, emphasizing that any individuals found culpable will face full force of the law, including charges related to economic crimes.
In the wake of the shake-up, KPC’s Board has appointed Pius Mwendwa as Acting Managing Director. The board has also moved to reassure Kenyans that fuel supply operations remain stable and uninterrupted despite the ongoing investigations.
The government has reiterated its commitment to transparency, accountability, and safeguarding public resources as it works to restore confidence in the country’s energy sector.
