Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has appointed former Ugenya Member of Parliament, Christopher Odhiambo Karani, to the Board of Directors of the Kenya Pipeline Company Limited (KPC). The appointment, detailed in Gazette Notice No. 6483, takes effect from May 23, 2025, and will run for a period of three years.
Karani takes over from engineer Edward Musebe, whose appointment has been revoked. The decision was made under the powers conferred upon the Cabinet Secretary by Section 6(1)(e) of the State Corporations Act.
The Kenya Pipeline Company is a key state corporation tasked with the transportation, storage, and distribution of petroleum products across the country. It plays a central role in Kenya’s energy sector by ensuring a steady and secure fuel supply, which is critical to economic activities and national development. The company’s infrastructure spans major cities and towns, supporting the seamless flow of fuel to industries, businesses, and consumers.
Karani, who hails from Siaya County, served as Ugenya Constituency MP until 2018, when the High Court in Kisumu nullified his election due to irregularities in the electoral process. Since then, he has largely remained outside the national political limelight.
His return to public service through this strategic appointment is seen by analysts as part of CS Wandayi’s broader efforts to inject political experience and regional representation into key parastatals within the energy sector.
Political observers also view the appointment as a move by Wandayi, a fellow native of Siaya County, to consolidate political influence while enhancing administrative oversight in vital government institutions. The inclusion of experienced individuals like Karani is expected to boost governance and accountability in the operations of KPC.
As he begins his term, Karani is expected to help steer KPC in advancing its mission to deliver petroleum products efficiently and sustainably, particularly amid rising fuel demand and growing calls for transparency in the management of state-owned enterprises. His performance will be closely watched as the country continues to grapple with energy challenges and infrastructure expansion needs.
