Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi Orders Oil Marketers to Release Hoarded Fuel Amid Fears of Shortage

 By Shakland Masese 

Speaking during a press conference on Wednesday, March 25, Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi said the government is aware of reports that some oil marketing companies are holding back products in anticipation of price changes. He described such practices as “commercially opportunistic, counter to the public interest, and in direct breach of licensing obligations.”

“All licensed oil marketing companies are strongly reminded of their legal obligation to maintain continuous supply and release products at pre-gazetted prices.”

He responded to the growing concerns that the country has sufficient fuel reserves and dismissed fears of a looming shortage, urging Kenyans to remain calm and avoid panic. 

“I must discourage Kenyans from panic buying and urge them to remain calm.”

This comes at a time when there are fears of a possible fuel shortage in the country. The government says it is now taking stern action against all marketers who are violating government regulations regarding fuel marketing.

The government claims that some of these marketers are hoarding fuel, waiting for a time when they can increase their prices. According to Wandayi, this is illegal, exploitative, and not in the interest of the public. 

“We will not allow any marketer to withhold fuel from the market, and action will be taken against those involved.” 

The Energy Cabinet Secretary also explained during a press briefing that all licensed oil marketing companies are expected to ensure that there is a constant supply of fuel into the market. 

They are also expected to ensure that they sell their fuel at a price set by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) and not otherwise. 

The government is also assuring all Kenyans of sufficient fuel in the country. According to government statistics, there is currently enough fuel in stock, and there is no reason for worry. This is because the government is importing more fuel into the country through bilateral agreements it has established with other countries in the world. 

“We have enough fuel in the country.”

Despite all these efforts, however, there are reports from different parts of the country of a possible shortage of fuel. This is because many of these petrol stations are currently running out of fuel. This is also because of the increased price of oil in the world, which is currently experiencing political tensions. The government is assuring all Kenyans of their commitment to ensuring that there is enough fuel in the country for their consumption.