Opposition leaders from the ODM and Jubilee parties, including Raila Odinga and William Ruto, formally presented the 14-day ultimatum to President William Ruto on October 20, 2024, demanding the government release all details of the Dangote Refinery agreement. The project, valued at $15 billion, involves the construction of Africa’s largest oil refinery in the Mombasa area and has faced scrutiny over its lack of public consultation and alleged opacity in negotiations. The opposition accused the government of withholding critical information, including financial terms and environmental impact assessments, which they argue undermines public accountability.
The ultimatum follows months of growing pressure from civil society groups and media outlets, who have criticized the government for failing to provide transparency on the deal. Opposition spokespersons emphasized that the project’s scale and strategic importance necessitate full disclosure to ensure compliance with Kenya’s public procurement laws. A statement from the opposition coalition noted, "The Kenyan people have a right to know how their resources are being allocated, especially for projects of this magnitude." The Dangote Group, a Nigerian conglomerate, has not publicly commented on the allegations, but the Kenyan government has maintained that the deal aligns with national economic interests.
Government officials, including a spokesperson from the Ministry of Energy, responded by asserting that the Dangote Refinery agreement adheres to legal frameworks and that all necessary approvals have been secured. However, they did not address specific requests for detailed documentation, instead reiterating that the project is critical for reducing Kenya’s reliance on imported fuel. Critics, including legal experts and anti-corruption advocates, argue that the lack of transparency risks fostering graft and eroding public trust in state institutions. The opposition has warned that failure to comply with the ultimatum could lead to intensified scrutiny and potential legal challenges.
The dispute highlights broader tensions over governance and accountability in Kenya, particularly as the country prepares for high-profile international events, including the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. The Dangote Refinery, if completed, is expected to boost regional energy security but has become a flashpoint for debates over how large-scale infrastructure projects are negotiated and executed. As the 14-day deadline approaches, the outcome of this standoff could set a precedent for future public-private partnerships in the nation.