The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has come to the defense of Cabinet Secretaries Opiyo Wandayi (Energy) and Lee Kinyanjui (Trade) following intense pressure for their dismissal over a petroleum importation scandal.
The party warned against the “public lynching” of the two officials, arguing that as non-accounting officers, they likely played a minimal role in the controversy.
In an official statement, the party claimed that targeting the CSs would distract from the core issue, stating, “Attempts at public lynching of Cabinet Secretaries Lee Kinyanjui and Opiyo Wandayi, who are not accounting officers, as some leaders are attempting, will only derail the investigations and politicise the scam.”
While the party offered its support, Party Leader Oburu Oginga clarified that this defense is not a blanket exoneration. He maintained that the two must face the consequences if formal inquiries reveal any wrongdoing.
“However, should professional investigations place responsibility on their actions, then there must be no sacred cows,” Oburu noted.
Oginga further insisted that the party remains committed to integrity in public office, regardless of political ties. He added: “ODM takes the firm and unequivocal position that every public officer found culpable regardless of their rank, office, or political persuasion must be held fully accountable. The fight against corruption cannot be selective; it must be comprehensive, impartial, and relentless.”
This follows the growing pressure for the two cabinet secretaries to step down over the ongoing petroleum importation scandal. Following the recent arrest and subsequent resignation of several high-ranking energy officials, the party argued that the war against graft will not be won through public name-calling and political posturing.
ODM stressed that the nation must focus on supporting thorough investigations rather than engaging in performative politics.
“This is a time when the nation must close ranks and support the full and unapologetic slaying of the dragon of graft – not scoring points through public rallies, pressers, and name-calling but giving encouragement and creating room for full and impartial investigations and subjecting the culprits to justice,” the statement read.
Party leader Oburu Oginga reaffirmed that ODM remains aligned with the Kenyan public in its pursuit of justice, transparency, and the full recovery of any national resources lost during the scandal. He further emphasized that the party views the fight against corruption as a foundational element of the ODM–UDA 10-point agenda.
“We wish to reiterate that the fight against corruption is a central pillar of the ODM–UDA 10-point agenda. The seriousness with which this administration confronts this vice will be the true measure of its commitment to integrity, accountability, and good governance. The Kenyan people expect and deserve nothing less,” Oginga stated.
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has commended investigative authorities for their swift response to the petroleum scandal. Party leader Oburu Oginga noted that this prompt action sends a clear signal that the era of complacency regarding corruption has finally come to an end.
In the same statement, the party expressed its appreciation for the president’s role in the process. “We further commend His Excellency the President for ensuring that these investigations proceed in a professional, expeditious, and transparent manner, free from interference or favoritism,” the ODM statement added.
