CAK Issues Demands to Oil Marketers Amid Fuel Shortage, Triggering Long Queues
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The Competition Authority of Kenya (CAK) has issued a stern warning to oil marketing companies over alleged fuel hoarding and anti-competitive practices amid a nationwide shortage that has triggered long queues at petrol stations.
In a cautionary statement released on Friday, April 10, 2026, CAK said it had taken note of growing public concern over the limited availability of key petroleum products, including petrol, diesel, kerosene and Jet A-1.
The Authority warned that any attempt by suppliers, distributors, or retailers to deliberately withhold fuel from the market in order to create artificial scarcity or manipulate prices would be considered a violation of the law.
“Fuel is an essential commodity that underpins economic activity and public welfare. Any deliberate attempt to withhold supply or gain unfair commercial advantage is a prohibited practice under the Competition Act,” the statement read.
CAK Raises Alarm Over Fuel Hoarding Amid Long Queues at Petrol Stations
CAK further pointed to reports suggesting that some oil marketing companies may be hoarding fuel or restricting supply to non-franchised retailers in anticipation of a price increase.
Also Read: EPRA Issues Fresh Orders to Oil Firms as Fuel Shortage Triggers Long Queues
The regulator cited several provisions of the Competition Act, cautioning that such conduct could distort market competition and disadvantage certain players within the sector.
Under the law, companies found culpable risk facing financial penalties of up to 10% of their previous year’s gross annual turnover.
Penalties to be Imposed on Oil Marketing Companies Hoarding Fuel
In addition, individuals involved could face fines of up to Ksh10 million or imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years upon conviction.
CAK noted that it is working closely with the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) to monitor the situation and ensure compliance within the sector.
The Authority stressed its mandate to safeguard fair competition and protect consumers from exploitative practices, warning that it will not hesitate to take action against firms found engaging in illegal conduct.
The directive comes as motorists across the country continue to face prolonged waiting times at fuel stations, raising concerns over supply stability and market transparency.
Earlier, EPRA issued a statement terming the current fuel shortage situation artificial, insisting that the country has sufficient petroleum stocks.
“The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has received reports of an artificial shortage of petroleum products in the country despite the country being sufficiently stocked,” the authority said.
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Competition Authority of Kenya Director General David Kemei. PHOTO/CAK
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