By Peter John

Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has claimed that the recent arrest of senior energy sector officials is linked to a fallout within the government-to-government (G-to-G) oil importation framework.

Speaking on Sunday, the former Deputy President alleged that the arrests are not rooted in accountability but stem from a business dispute involving key players in the fuel importation chain.

The officials—Energy Principal Secretary Mohamed Liban, Kenya Pipeline Company official Joe Sang, and Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) Director General Daniel Kiptoo—are accused of importing fuel outside the G-to-G arrangement.

Gachagua claims their actions allegedly disrupted established interests, triggering their arrest.

He further alleged that the dispute revolves around large financial interests, including claims that the officials made significant gains outside the G-to-G structure. He also raised concerns about the handling of cash reportedly recovered during the investigations.

Authorities have yet to publicly respond to the specific allegations.

Gachagua has since been summoned by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) over the claims but has indicated he will not honour the summons.

He warned that instability surrounding the oil importation framework could have economic consequences, including a potential rise in fuel prices and an increase in the overall cost of living.