Energy and petroleum cabinet secretary Opiyo Wandayi has pushed back against growing calls for his resignation over the controversial importation of fuel outside the government-to-government (G-to-G) framework, insisting he has no grounds to step aside.

Appearing before the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Energy on Monday, the Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary defended his actions, saying investigations into the matter are ongoing and that he acted immediately after learning of the irregular shipment.

“When all is said and done, in the final analysis, clearly there is no reason to stop me from discharging my duties as Cabinet Secretary,” he told MPs.

Wandayi explained that the fuel consignment in question was processed outside the G-to-G arrangement, a system the government has relied on to stabilise local prices and cushion Kenyans from global oil market fluctuations.

He maintained that the shipment did not receive approval at his level.

“The approval was not sought, and if it had been sought, I would have escalated the matter to the president,” Wandayi said.

The CS also shed light on internal processes preceding the importation, pointing to recommendations made by a multi-agency technical team regarding fuel supply levels.

“A brief on supply position was prepared by a multi-agency technical team that recommended consideration for contingency cargo to shore up the stocks. The brief was presented to the PS, State Department of Energy for consideration and approval,” he said.

According to Wandayi, he briefed William Ruto on March 30 after discovering the consignment had been sourced outside the G-to-G framework, prompting swift action.

“When we realised that the oil came outside the G-to-G, I reported to the President. It was from that brief that he directed that the next consignment be stopped,” he said.

He added that the disputed cargo will not influence pump prices and that the importer has agreed to withdraw it from the market.

Wandayi further disclosed that a waiver had been requested to allow the fuel into the country despite not meeting required specifications, adding that the matter is now under investigation.

“The matter is under investigation by the Director of Criminal Investigations,” he said, referring to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations.

The CS also addressed concerns surrounding the recent resignation of three senior officials in the energy sector, telling lawmakers he had no knowledge of the reasons behind their departure.

“I do not know why the three officers resigned. There is no evidence of coercion on their resignation. Investigations are ongoing,” Wandayi said.

His remarks prompted the parliamentary committee to demand the resignation letters, noting that the appointing authority is best placed to clarify the circumstances.

The controversy has intensified scrutiny over fuel procurement and supply chains, with questions emerging over pricing inconsistencies and adherence to established frameworks.

While acknowledging sustained high global fuel prices, Wandayi said any local adjustments would be determined by the regulator.

“Fuel prices are up worldwide. I do not know whether Epra will increase or not, but the reality is that prices are high,” he said, referring to the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority.

Despite mounting political pressure, Wandayi remained defiant, insisting due process must take its course as investigations continue.

“There is no reason to stop me from continuing to discharge my duties,” he reiterated.