Opposition leaders led by Kalonzo Musyoka have strongly criticized the government over what they describe as a deepening fuel scandal, accusing those in power of turning a national crisis into a profit-making venture at the expense of millions of Kenyans.
In a joint statement issued under the banner of the United Alternative Government, the leaders said they had closely followed developments in the fuel sector and were alarmed by what they termed as a “well-calculated scheme” to manipulate supply and inflate prices.
According to the opposition, the fuel crisis began after disruptions in global supply linked to tensions in the Middle East. Emergency procurement procedures were reportedly initiated in line with the law, with contracts awarded to the lowest qualified bidders. However, the leaders allege that these decisions were later overturned to favor Gulf Energy, a firm they claim is linked to President William Ruto.
They further allege that despite missing key deadlines and failing to meet technical requirements, the company was pushed into the deal, gaining control over bulk fuel imports. This, they claim, enabled a network of individuals to renegotiate prices behind closed doors and generate massive profits.
The opposition estimates that the alleged scheme is earning insiders up to KSh 5 per litre, translating to approximately KSh 2.5 billion per supply cycle, even as consumers continue to face record-high fuel prices.
“This is a betrayal of Kenyans,” the leaders said, arguing that while ordinary citizens struggle with the rising cost of living, those who followed due process are now being targeted to shield the real beneficiaries of the deal.
As part of their demands, the opposition has called on President Ruto to convene a special sitting of Parliament within seven days to address the crisis. They are also pushing for the immediate cancellation of the government-to-government petroleum import framework, which they claim primarily serves private interests.
Additionally, the leaders are demanding the resignation and prosecution of the Cabinet Secretary for Energy and all individuals implicated in the alleged scandal. They have also called for the suspension of key levies, including the Road Maintenance Levy, Affordable Housing Levy, and increased NSSF deductions, alongside the removal of VAT on fuel to ease pressure on households.
The opposition warned that failure to act swiftly risks further worsening the economic situation, insisting that “Kenya cannot be run for profit at the expense of its own people.”
