Three senior officials in Kenya’s energy sector have stepped down as investigations continue into alleged manipulation of fuel supply data and questionable emergency procurement of petroleum products.

In a statement released on Saturday, April 4, the Head of Public Service, Felix Koskei, confirmed that the resignations involve Mohamed Liban, Joe Sang, and Daniel Kiptoo Bargoria.

Koskei said the decision followed arrests carried out on April 2 after investigators linked the officials to suspected irregularities surrounding fuel supply records.

According to the statement, authorities believe inaccurate fuel stock data may have been presented to create the impression that the country was facing an imminent shortage.

“This egregious misrepresentation appears to have led to the irregular procurement of an emergency fuel cargo by the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum,” Koskei said.

“The principal actors involved include the Principal Secretary for Petroleum, the Director General of the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority, and the Managing Director of the Kenya Pipeline Company.”

The investigation is examining how the alleged misinformation may have influenced the government’s decision to procure an emergency shipment of fuel at prices reportedly higher than those negotiated under the government-to-government supply arrangement.

Authorities also raised concerns about the quality of the imported consignment, indicating that the shipment is suspected to have failed to meet the required fuel standards and may have been procured outside established emergency procedures.

The government introduced the government-to-government fuel import framework in 2023 following severe shortages experienced the previous year.

The arrangement was meant to ensure a stable supply of petroleum products while shielding the country from fluctuations in global prices and foreign exchange pressures.

Under the framework, Kenya receives fuel supplies from international firms including Aramco Trading Fujairah, ADNOC Global Trading Ltd and Emirates National Oil Company Singapore Pte Limited.

Koskei also disclosed that investigations have extended to other officials within the sector.

Among them are Joseph Wafula and Joel Mburu, who are currently undergoing administrative processes as part of the inquiry.

Authorities say steps are being taken to reverse the irregular fuel shipments and restore procurement procedures in line with the government’s supply agreements.

“The government remains steadfast in safeguarding public interests and protecting national resources,” Koskei said.