By Andrew Kariuki

Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has defended his position and distanced himself from key decisions in the ongoing fuel importation controversy, as he finally appeared before the National Assembly’s Energy Committee.

The CS, who had previously skipped summons, told lawmakers he had no knowledge of why several officials linked to the matter had stepped down.

“As to why three or so officers have resigned, I cannot say because I do not know why they resigned. What I know is that investigations are ongoing,” Wandayi said.

Despite mounting pressure over the scandal, Wandayi maintained that there is no justification for him to step aside.

“When all is said and done, there is no reason to stop me from discharging my duties as CS,” he stated.

Addressing concerns over fuel shortages reported across the country, Wandayi dismissed claims of a supply crisis, instead shifting blame to industry players.

“There is no shortage of fuel in the country. If there is any shortage, it has been caused by oil market players,” he told the committee.

On the controversial fuel consignment at the centre of the scandal, the CS said the procurement process was initiated at a technical level and approved by the Principal Secretary.

“Procurement of the consignment was recommended by a technical committee. The PS (Mohamed Liban) approved it in his wisdom,” he explained.

Wandayi added that he only became aware of irregularities after the shipment had already been processed outside the government-to-government (G2G) framework.

“On 30th March, it emerged this consignment came out of G2G and I moved swiftly and briefed the President. His Excellency advised me to stop the second vessel which was coming in,” he said.

He further insisted that such a deviation required higher-level approval, which he claimed was never sought from his office.

“Such a deviation should require a higher approval. The approval of CS was not sought. If it did, I would have escalated to the President,” Wandayi added.

His appearance comes amid growing scrutiny over the Ksh4.8 billion fuel scandal, with lawmakers expected to press further on accountability as investigations continue.