Fuel Scandal Rocks State House: Top Officials Resign as DCI Vows No One Is Above the Law – But Isiolo Asks, ‘Who Speaks for Us Now?’
In a dramatic turn of events that has sent shockwaves through Kenya’s energy sector, three high-ranking officials have resigned to pave the way for an intense probe into allegations of economic sabotage linked to a controversial fuel procurement deal.
Petroleum Principal Secretary Mohamed Liban, Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) Managing Director Joe Sang, and Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) Director General Daniel Kiptoo have all stepped aside, according to a statement by Head of Public Service Felix Koskei.
The move, while hailed by anti-corruption crusaders as a bold step toward accountability, has also sparked a wave of regional soul-searching—particularly in Isiolo County, where PS Liban is regarded as a rare symbol of dignified northern representation in the national government.
A Cloud of Allegations, a Constitutional Shield
Before diving into the political and regional nuances, it is critical to underscore a cornerstone of Kenyan justice: all the accused individuals remain innocent until proven guilty in a credible court of law, as enshrined in the Kenyan Constitution.
Resignation is not conviction; it is a procedural step to allow unfettered investigations.
The probe, led by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), centers on the irregular procurement of an emergency cargo of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) involving One Petroleum Limited.
The DCI has already recorded statements from senior government officials and executives of the embattled firm, with Oryx Energy Limited’s top brass also summoned.
Leveraging international cooperation under the Mutual Legal Assistance program, the DCI has warned in no uncertain terms: “The fact that someone resigns from their position does not mean they are free from criminal responsibility.”
Authorities have reiterated a zero-tolerance stance on corruption, promising transparency in public procurement.
The final dossier will be forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) for independent action.
The Liban Enigma: From Eye Doctor to PS Under a Cloud
For those who know Mohamed Liban’s journey, his resignation is nothing short of poignant.
A career ophthalmologist who traded his scalpel for public service, Liban ventured into politics with an unsuccessful bid for Isiolo Senator in 2017.
Yet his competence and dignity saw him rise through the ranks, including a senior role at the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), before President Ruto appointed him Petroleum PS in 2022.
In Isiolo and the wider northern Kenya, Liban was more than a technocrat—he was a beacon.
One of the few senior state appointees from a historically marginalized region, his exit now leaves a conspicuous gap in national representation.
Residents are torn: while accountability is non-negotiable, many quietly lament that their voice at the high table may have been silenced too soon.
“He worked hard his way to the top, with no scandals until now. If he is innocent, this resignation is a grave loss for our people,” a local elder told our reporter.
Another added, “Let the law take its course. But who from the north will sit in those powerful meetings tomorrow?”
A Spicy Twist: Resignation ≠ Absolution
The DCI’s blunt warning has added spice to an already simmering pot: resignation does not amount to absolution.
This means that even as Liban, Sang, and Kiptoo step aside, their legal troubles are only beginning.
The investigation, conducted with mutual legal assistance from international partners, suggests that the fuel scandal may have cross-border tentacles.
For PS Liban specifically, the coming weeks will be a crucible. Will he emerge exonerated, returning to serve his nation and region?
Or will the probe uncover evidence that tarnishes a once-untouchable reputation? For now, Isiolo watches, hopes, and prays.
Cheerful Note? Only for Rule of Law.
While scandals are never cheerful, Kenyans can take heart in one thing: institutions are working. The DCI, EPRA, KPC, and the Head of Public Service have acted with speed and transparency.
The message is clear—no sacred cows, no regional exemptions, and no hiding behind resignation letters.
As the DCI and ODPP proceed, the nation waits with bated breath. And for Isiolo, the hope remains that if Liban is cleared, he returns stronger. If not, then the Constitution—and justice—must take its full, impartial course.
In the end, accountability is not regional. But representation? That, every county knows, is personal.
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