The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has defended the proposed Dangote oil refinery in Lamu, describing the Sh2 trillion project as an important investment for Kenya.
Mbadi also rejected allegations that President William Ruto owns shares in the planned refinery, while criticising protests by some Lamu residents over compensation and public participation.
The CS accused land brokers and alleged cartels of attempting to exploit the land acquisition process by demanding excessive compensation from the government.
Speaking about the concerns raised by some Lamu residents ahead of the planned groundbreaking of the East Africa Oil Refinery, Mbadi described the controversy surrounding the project as “primitive politics.”
“It’s unfortunate that politics is playing out in such a serious investment…even if you are in opposition…you know what’s serious and what is not,” he said.
Mbadi maintained that residents had been involved in public participation processes conducted by the relevant government agencies before the planned groundbreaking.
He further accused brokers of attempting to manipulate the land acquisition process for personal gain, questioning demands for compensation that he said were far above the assessed value of the affected property.
“Brokers are trying to con government…how do you ask for Ksh.30 million for a plot valued at Ksh.60,000?” Mbadi said.
The Treasury CS also dismissed claims that President Ruto has a personal stake in the refinery.
“Ruto doesn’t have any shares…you can check on Dangote Group listing…if anything 30% of shareholding will be open to the EA region…” he said.
Mbadi’s comments came after People’s Party of Kenya (PPK) leader Ndindi Nyoro called for greater transparency over the ownership structure of the proposed refinery.
Nyoro had urged the disclosure of the project’s shareholders, saying Kenyans should know who owns the investment. His remarks did not establish that Ruto personally owns shares in the refinery.
