Plans to privatize the Kenya Pipeline Company have triggered a fresh wave of political tension and public concern, with strong voices warning that the move could expose the country to serious risks.
Among those leading the resistance is Narok Senator Ledama Olekina, who has openly criticized President William Ruto’s administration for approving the sale of shares in the state-owned energy logistics firm.
During a Cabinet meeting held on July 29, the government gave the green light for KPC to be listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange.
This means private investors and members of the public could soon own a part of the company. While the government insists this is part of its plan to reduce reliance on state funding and attract professional expertise, critics argue the decision was rushed and not in the country’s best interest.
Senator Olekina, a strong ally of the opposition, has not held back in expressing his concerns. Through a social media statement, he questioned the wisdom of privatizing such a strategic asset.
He warned that placing KPC in the hands of profit-driven investors could increase the chances of cyber attacks, reduce accountability, and weaken oversight of vital infrastructure.
According to him, Kenya should be strengthening institutions like KPC rather than selling them off.
Adding their voice to the opposition, the Motorists Association of Kenya described the decision as dangerous and irresponsible.
They argued that KPC is too important to be handed over to private control, especially given its role in transporting and storing petroleum across the country and into neighboring states.
In their statement, they said the Cabinet’s move undermines public trust and poses a threat to the country’s energy backbone.
Critics are also worried about the lack of transparency in the process. They want the government to reveal who the potential buyers are and how the sale will be managed.
There are fears that politically connected individuals could quietly acquire large stakes in the company, further tightening the hold of the elite over key national resources.
The government, however, has defended the move by pointing to past examples like KenGen, which they say improved performance after partial privatization.
But Senator Olekina has pushed back against that comparison, saying KPC operates in a different and more sensitive space. He reminded the government that fuel pipelines are not just about business—they are also about national security and trade.
Public pressure is mounting, with social media users, civil society groups, and energy sector observers calling for Parliament to step in.
Many are demanding a public debate and more clarity before the deal goes ahead. Olekina has urged lawmakers to block the sale, warning that giving up control of KPC could have long-term consequences for the country.
The future of Kenya Pipeline Company remains uncertain. The next steps by both the government and Parliament will determine whether the sale proceeds or if the growing outcry will lead to a change of direction.
