The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has defended the government’s handling of Kenya’s fuel sector, accusing critics of politicising an issue it says touches on national security and economic stability.

In a statement dated April 6, 2026, UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar Hassan criticised former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro over their comments on the ongoing fuel importation probe.

Omar said the matter required careful handling, particularly as global tensions, including the Iran-Israel conflict, continue to affect oil supply chains passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

“On behalf of the United Democratic Alliance, I must address a critical national security concern that has been regrettably and irresponsibly politicised,” Omar stated.

Political dispute over fuel probe

The controversy follows investigations into alleged irregular fuel importation outside the Government-to-Government (G-to-G) arrangement with Saudi Arabia. Authorities have been examining claims that some fuel cargoes entered the market at higher prices and outside the established framework.

The probe has already seen several senior officials step down and record statements with investigators. Among them are former Petroleum Principal Secretary Mohammed Liban, ex-Kenya Pipeline Company Managing Director Joe Sang and former Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority Director General Daniel Kiptoo.

The officials were questioned by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations over claims linked to the importation of substandard or overpriced fuel.

According to the UDA statement, the contested cargoes were reportedly priced between Ksh50 and Ksh80 higher than fuel delivered under the G-to-G programme, potentially exposing the country to losses estimated at about Ksh3 billion.

Omar accused Gachagua, whom he referred to as Wamunyoro, and Nyoro of exploiting the issue for political purposes instead of focusing on national interests.

He described their remarks as “mere political exploitation” and “discordant” commentary lacking intellectual depth and policy understanding, warning them against issuing “misinformed statements” that could undermine public confidence.

Assurances on fuel supply

The party said measures remain in place to protect consumers and stabilise the fuel market. It noted that the G-to-G pricing framework would continue to guide the next fuel price review by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority.

UDA said the arrangement had helped maintain stability in fuel supply and pricing during periods of global market volatility.

“Firm safeguards are in place to address risks linked to the substandard fuel cargo, with no compromise on mandatory testing protocols,” Omar affirmed.

The party added that mandatory quality testing of all fuel shipments remains in force and that results will be made public.

Investigations and accountability

The statement also said the government had begun recovery proceedings against importers linked to the disputed cargoes to shield taxpayers from financial losses.

UDA proposed sanctions equivalent to five times the projected losses, amounting to about Ksh15 billion, and suggested that recovered funds could support improvements in Level Six hospitals.

Omar further called on investigative agencies to review remarks made by Gachagua, stating that legal action should follow if any wrongdoing is established.

The debate comes as global tensions in the Middle East continue to affect oil markets, raising concerns about supply stability and fuel prices in several countries, including Kenya.