Bad News for Ruto as High Court Fast-Tracks Case Seeking Details of Dangote Deal

The High Court has fast-tracked a case seeking details of the Kenyan government’s planned involvement in the Sh2 trillion Dangote East Africa Refinery project in Lamu.

Justice David Mburu on Tuesday, October 6, certified the petition as urgent and directed that it be handled on a priority basis.

The case was filed by activist Francis Awino, who wants the government to explain whether public money, land, tax incentives, guarantees or other state resources will be used to support the refinery.

Awino is also seeking details of agreements, approvals, financing proposals, valuations and other documents linked to the planned government involvement.

The court directed Awino to serve the respondents and interested parties with the petition and related documents within two days. Those served will then have seven days to file their responses.

The legal action comes less than a week after President William Ruto and Nigerian businessman Aliko Dangote officially broke ground for the refinery in Lamu on September 30.

The $16 billion project is expected to process up to 700,000 barrels of crude oil per day once completed. It is also expected to create thousands of jobs and strengthen fuel supply across East Africa.

However, questions about the government’s proposed stake and other commitments have continued to grow.

The Consumers Federation of Kenya has separately sought information on Kenya’s reported 10 per cent stake in the project and how it would be financed.

Thirdway Alliance leader Ekuru Aukot has also asked the government to release the contract and ownership details under Article 35 of the Constitution.

The latest court case therefore adds to the growing scrutiny surrounding the refinery.

For now, the High Court has only directed that the matter be heard urgently. The petitioner’s requests for restrictions and disclosure are yet to be determined.

The government and other parties will have an opportunity to respond as the case moves forward.

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