Energy CS Wandayi in Trouble as Activist Awino Files Petition Seeking His Removal Over Fuel Scandal.
A Nairobi-based activist has moved to the High Court seeking the removal of Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi over alleged irregularities in the importation of petroleum products.
In a petition filed before the High Court, Francis Awino accuses the CS of violating constitutional provisions on leadership, integrity and public accountability, citing the alleged unlawful procurement and importation of substandard fuel under the government-to-government (G2G) framework.
The petition argues that the importation process bypassed mandatory regulatory safeguards, including pre-export verification requirements, and allowed fuel that allegedly did not meet Kenyan quality standards into the country.
Awino further claims that waivers were irregularly issued to permit the importation of the fuel consignment, raising concerns about consumer safety, environmental risks and the integrity of the petroleum supply chain.
According to court documents, the petitioner contends that the actions attributed to the CS amount to abuse of office and breach of public trust, arguing that continued occupancy of office undermines accountability in a critical national sector.
The petition also links the controversy to a consignment of premium motor spirit reportedly imported aboard MT Paloma in March 2026 under what are described as irregular circumstances.
In addition, Awino alleges that he has faced threats, intimidation and physical assault after publicly calling for accountability in the matter, which he says infringes on his constitutional rights, including freedom of expression and personal security.
He is now seeking several orders from the court, including a declaration that the CS violated the Constitution, suspension from office pending determination of the case, and investigations into all individuals involved in the alleged procurement irregularities.
The petition also calls for the production of all documents related to the fuel importation and for relevant investigative agencies to take action against those found culpable.
The case raises broader questions about oversight, transparency and accountability in the energy sector, as scrutiny intensifies over the handling of petroleum imports in the country.
