The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has moved to shield Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi and Trade CS Lee Kinyanjui from mounting public criticism over the ongoing controversy surrounding the importation of substandard fuel.
In a statement issued on April 7, ODM party leader Oburu Odinga cautioned against what he described as premature condemnation of the two officials, urging the public to allow investigations to run their course. He warned that directing blame at individuals who are not directly responsible for financial oversight risks undermining the integrity of the probe.
The party argued that sustained public pressure targeting the two cabinet secretaries could politicise the matter and interfere with efforts to establish accountability. At the same time, ODM maintained that no official should be shielded if found culpable once investigations are concluded.
Should evidence link either Wandayi or Kinyanjui to wrongdoing, the party said, they must face legal consequences without exception.
ODM further reaffirmed its stance on corruption, describing the fight against graft as a key pillar of the ODM-UDA 10-point agenda. It emphasised the need for investigations that are transparent, impartial, and thorough to restore public confidence.
The party also expressed support for the government’s broader anti-corruption efforts under President William Ruto, noting that the administration’s handling of the scandal will be a critical test of its commitment to accountability and good governance.
