High Court Certifies Urgent Petition Challenging KPC Caretaker Board

The High Court has certified as urgent a petition challenging the reappointment of the Kenya Pipeline Company board of directors. The judge ordered immediate service of all documents on the parties. Mention is set for July 29.

The Kenya Petroleum Oil Workers Union named several respondents. These include board chairperson Faith Bett Boinett and Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi. Other board members and Fastnett Energy Ltd are also listed.

In its arguments, the union says the board continues to act despite lacking competitive recruitment required by law. President William Ruto reappointed the members on December 19, 2025, for three years.

The petition alleges chairperson Boinett has a conflict of interest. A company linked to her holds agreements with KPC. Several members reportedly lack required academic and professional qualifications.

KPC has become a public limited company with Kenya and Uganda as majority shareholders. In April 2026, its government entity status was revoked. This created a caretaker board with limited powers.

Yet the union claims the caretaker board has made major decisions. These include removing the managing director and hiring a human resources consultant. It also notified staff about medical cover changes on July 8.

The proposed medical scheme switch raises transparency concerns. The union says it appears designed to benefit an individual. This comes despite ongoing consultations with workers.

Earlier letters to regulators and the Ministry of Energy brought no response. The union now seeks court intervention for violations of fair administrative action and constitutional rights.

The government sold a 65 percent stake in KPC in March. It raised Sh106.3 billion in an oversubscribed offering. The firm listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange on March 10, 2026.

The case underscores governance questions for critical infrastructure after privatisation. KPC pipelines support national and regional energy supply. Stability in leadership remains essential for smooth operations.

Court directions stress prompt service and returns. This urgency reflects possible impacts on company functions and employees. Hearings will address the board's mandate going forward.