The High Court in Nairobi has temporarily stopped the government from privatizing the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC).
Justice Bahati Mwamuye issued the conservatory order on August 15, 2025, halting any sale, transfer, or disposal of KPC shares until a petition challenging the move is fully heard.
“Pending the inter partes hearing and determination of the applicant’s notice of motion dated 14/08/2025, a conservatory order be and is hereby issued restraining the Respondents from offering for sale any shares of the Kenya Pipeline Company,” the judge ruled.
The court also directed the petitioners to serve the government and other interested parties ahead of the hearing. Responses must be submitted by August 22, 2025, while the petitioner may file a rejoinder by August 29, 2025.
The ruling comes two weeks after the Cabinet approved KPC’s privatization. A government notice dated July 26 said the move would allow the private sector to drive growth and innovation.
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“The decision reflects the government’s policy shift toward reducing its role in doing business and instead enabling the private sector and industry experts to drive growth, efficiency, and innovation,” the Cabinet statement read.
The announcement faced immediate resistance from KPC employees who fear job losses if the company is sold. Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, however, assured that existing legal protections would safeguard staff. “We do not foresee any job losses or any restructuring to the current job structures at KPC,” he said.
The High Court’s order puts the sale on hold until the petition is fully considered, marking a temporary win for employees and other concerned stakeholders.
By Benedict Aoya
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