Kenya, 7 April 2026 - The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has called for calm and restraint as investigations into the multi-billion-shilling fuel scandal gather pace, cautioning against turning public anger into political attacks.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, party leader Oburu Oginga said while the unfolding scandal has sparked justified outrage among Kenyans, especially amid rising living costs, the focus must remain on credible investigations rather than assigning blame prematurely.
“Any abuse of the petroleum sector… is both unacceptable and deeply offensive to the public conscience,” the statement said.
ODM warned that targeting Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi and Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui before investigations are concluded could derail the search for truth.
“Attempts at public lynching… will only derail the investigations and politicise the matter,” Oburu cautioned, noting that the two are not accounting officers directly responsible for financial management.
The party instead urged investigative agencies to proceed independently, praising their swift action so far and calling for a process that is “professional, expeditious and transparent.”
At the same time, ODM maintained that accountability must remain central, stressing that anyone found culpable, regardless of rank, should face the law.
“The fight against corruption cannot be selective; it must be comprehensive, impartial and relentless,” the statement read, adding that “there must be no sacred cows.”
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The party also reaffirmed that tackling corruption remains a key pillar of the ODM–UDA agenda, urging the government to demonstrate commitment through fair and thorough investigations.
ODM further appealed for national unity, warning against politicising the scandal through public rallies and accusations, and instead encouraging support for due process and justice.
The remarks come amid ongoing probes into alleged irregular fuel imports that have already led to arrests and heightened scrutiny within the energy sector.
ODM Defends Wandayi, Kinyanjui as Fuel Scandal Probe Continues
ODM warns against politicising fuel scandal during active investigations