Former Prime Minister and ODM leader Raila Odinga has thrown his weight behind the government’s proposal to privatise the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC). Raila argued that selling shares of the state-owned corporation would help the country raise money for investment and clear mounting public debt.
Speaking on Monday during an ODM Parliamentary Group meeting, Raila dismissed fears surrounding the privatisation move. He compared the situation to the United Kingdom, noting that even when foreign buyers acquire major assets, they remain within the country.
“KPC is underground, from Mombasa to Nairobi. Even if you sell it, where is somebody taking it? It remains an asset of Kenya, it is just there on the ground. If someone wants to buy it, buy it,” Raila said.
He further recalled former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher’s remarks when Arabs sought to buy historic UK properties, including Buckingham Palace. “She said even if they buy it, the palace stays in Britain. That is the same case with KPC,” Raila added.
President William Ruto had earlier announced plans to list KPC shares on the Nairobi Securities Exchange, pending Cabinet and parliamentary approval. The government has argued that privatisation would attract private capital and expertise to modernise the company and strengthen its role as a regional energy logistics hub.
However, the plan has faced hurdles. On August 15, the High Court temporarily halted the sale after the Consumers Federation of Kenya (Cofek) filed a petition opposing the move. Justice Bahati Mwamuye issued conservatory orders restraining the National Treasury, the Privatisation Authority, and other state agencies from proceeding with the transaction until the case is fully heard.
KPC plays a central role in Kenya’s energy supply chain and has consistently posted strong profits, making the debate around its privatisation one of national interest.
