A section of opposition lawmakers has vowed to challenge in court Parliament’s approval of the planned privatisation of the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC), escalating political tensions over the future of one of Kenya’s most strategic state corporations.
Led by Deputy Minority Leader Robert Mbui, the legislators described the move as a “daylight auction” and accused the House leadership of smuggling the issue into the supplementary Order Paper without sufficient notice.
“According to our Standing Orders, members must be made aware before the Order Paper is introduced. This specific issue of KPC was sneaked in after 3 pm,” Mbui argued. He warned that handing over control of KPC, which manages the national fuel distribution network, to private interests would endanger public assets.
The opposition MPs—including Jayne Kihara (Naivasha), Joseph Munyoro (Kigumo), Makali Mulu (Kitui Central), Onesmus Ngogoyo (Kajiado North), and Stephen Mule (Matungulu)—insisted the debate was rushed, lasting only 28 minutes, with some members denied the opportunity to contribute.
Mule also questioned the valuation of the company, saying, “The fundamental question is: what is the value of KPC? Such a national asset is being given away at only Sh100 billion.”
Government-allied MPs, however, defended the decision. National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah said privatisation would broaden public ownership, enhance efficiency, and reduce the fiscal burden on taxpayers.
“The Government will still maintain control because no single investor will acquire the entire 65 per cent. We are opening up KPC to Kenyans through an IPO, which promotes corporate governance and profitability,” Ichung’wah explained.
The Government plans to privatise 65 percent of its stake in KPC while retaining 35 percent. Officials argue this strategy will raise funds for infrastructure and service delivery without further tax increases.
With the opposition now threatening a legal battle, the privatisation process faces significant hurdles. The Judiciary may ultimately decide the fate of KPC, as the tug-of-war between the executive and opposition intensifies.
